| Year | Wine | Variety | Location | Price | Num | Rating |
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| 2008 | | | | | | |
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| NV | | | | | | |
| 2006 | 4 Heathens | Pinot Noir | | 36.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2009 | ALbert Bichot Vieilles Vignes | Red Burgundy | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Abacela South Face Block Reserve | Syrah | | 50.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Look out Hermitage, this has the grip, the earthiness, the herbs and spice, and above all the massive, ripe, complex fruit to compete. The layers of this wine just keep unfolding;the longer it breathes, the more it gives you. Crushed rock, lead pencil, Asian spice, blackberry, coffee and caramel...it never stops. What a superb achievement. |
| 2009 | Alain Paret Valvigneyre | Rhone | | 15.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Pure and focused, with delightful black cherry, red currant and lavender notes stretching out through the sandalwood-tinged finish. Relies on elegance more than power. |
| NV | Albert Bichot Brut Cremant | Sparkling Wine | | 17.50 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| NV | Albert Bichot Brut Rose Cremant | Sparkling Wine | | 17.50 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Aldo Conterno Barbera d'Alba Conca Tre Pile | Barbera | | 37.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Dark and brooding, with a good dose of new oak giving spice accents to the blackberry and black currant flavors. Stays pure and balanced, with a vibrant structure |
| 2006 | Alex Gambal Clos Vougeot - Grand Cru | Red Burgundy | | 135.00 | 2 | 93 |
| A round, fruity style, but there's no shortage of grip. Black cherry and black currant flavors set the pace, before fine-grained tannins, spice and mineral flavors enter the mix. Fine length. |
| 2006 | Alloro | Pinot Noir | | 32.00 | 0 | 88 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Andrew Will Champoux Vineyard - Magnum | Red Blend | | 140.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Firm, with a tart balance to the bright raspberry and brooding black fruit flavors. A distinctive minerally note emerges nicely on the expressive finish. Needs time to soften. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. |
| 2002 | Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Gloriously structured, this extraordinary effort blends 44% Merlot, 28% Cab Franc, 18% Cab Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot into a wine that reveals itself in sculpted layer upon layer of scent and flavor. Citrus peel, plum, wild berry, red currant and spice are set upon a base of rich mineral and rock, with precisely cut tannins. |
| 2007 | Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval | Red Blend | | 60.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Andrew Will Ciel du Cheval Red 07 - The balance between fruit and structure is well played out in this vintage. The classic and austere qualities that this vineyard has each year are well drawn out. As with most American wines, this wine projects more fruit in its youth than its European reflections. Over time we will see this difference shrink as the wines move (hopefully) into more complex incarnations of themselves. We would like to see this wine well stored for three or four years. As is almost always true with Andrew Will wines you can enjoy them now, but they will provide greater complexity over time. |
| 2007 | Andrew Will Sorella | Red Blend | | 74.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Andrew Will's flagship wine is called Sorella; the 2007 Sorella, sourced entirely from the Champoux Vineyard, one of Washington's finest sites, is made up of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, and 3% Petit Verdot. Aromas of toasty oak, espresso, Asian spices, incense, black currant, and blackberry lead to a firmly structured wine with impeccable balance and serious aging potential. |
| 2005 | Anne et Herve Sigaut Chambolle-Musigny Les Noirots | Red Burgundy | | 75.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2002 | Ardente | Sangiovese | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| 2007 | Argyle Brut | Sparkling Wine | | 30.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Tight, spicy and distinctive for the lemon meringue and spice overtones to green apple and toast flavors. |
| 2000 | Argyle Extended Triage Brut | Sparkling Wine | | 60.00 | 1 | 95 |
| 2001 | Argyle Extended Triage Brut | Sparkling Wine | | 60.00 | 1 | 91 |
| 2005 | Argyle Spirit House | Pinot Noir | | 70.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Supple and generous. A wine of appealing transparency that lets the creamy, floral cherry, plum and raspberry flavors hover gracefully over superfine tannins. It all lingers beautifully, suggesting a good future. |
| 2006 | Ash Hollow Walla Walla | Syrah | | 30.00 | 1 | 90 |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Ayoub Dundee Hills | Pinot Noir | | 52.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Light in color and body, this is deftly balanced to let the gorgeous raspberry, cherry and espresso flavors emerge easily and waft through the long, expressive finish, remarkably without much weight. Impressive for its style and refinement. |
| 2009 | Ayoub Dundee Hills | Chardonnay | | 45.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Silky, satiny, elegant and appealing for its superb balance. A light-bodied style that brims with flavor, offering pear, apple, quince and butter cookie notes that mingle enticingly on the long, expressive finish. This one can age. |
| 2007 | Battle Creek Battle Creek Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Beaux Freres Beaux Freres | Pinot Noir | | 80.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Light in color and body, this is deftly balanced to let the gorgeous raspberry, cherry and espresso flavors emerge easily and waft through the long, expressive finish, remarkably without much weight. Impressive for its style and refinement. |
| 2006 | Beaux Freres The Beaux Freres Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 80.00 | 0 | 93 |
| Distinctly spicy, with cinnamon and white pepper overtones to the focused red berry and cherry fruit, persisting on the expressive finish and lingering beautifully. Needs time to settle in, but this has the goods to age. |
| 2008 | Beaux Freres The Upper Terrace | Pinot Noir | | 90.00 | 2 | 95 |
| Elegant, refined and beautifully focused, layering its red cherry, black cherry, blueberry and currant fruit into a seamless package without tremendous weight. The finish picks up cream, chalk and distinctly mineral notes, and this just doesn't quit. Harmonious and complex. |
| 2006 | Beaux Freres Willamette Valley | Pinot Noir | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Soft, open-textured and appealing for its plum, currant and earthy mineral aromas and flavors, which linger against a burr of tannins. Gains richness and complexity with every sip. |
| 2006 | Beaux Freres Willamette Valley - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 120.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Soft, open-textured and appealing for its plum, currant and earthy mineral aromas and flavors, which linger against a burr of tannins. Gains richness and complexity with every sip. |
| 2005 | Bergevin Lane - Magnum | Cabernet | | 40.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Smooth and round, with generous cherry and currant fruit rolling easily over the palate, hinting at roasted red pepper and smoke as the finish lingers against a hint of sweet oak. |
| 2005 | Bergevin Lane Intuition | Red Blend | | 60.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Textured, spicy and exotically scented with red and black fruits, pepper, ground coffee, cinnamon, saffron and chocolate powder. It’s a delightful and complex wine, just under 15% alcohol, balanced and showing lots of plummy fruit that is backed with polished tannins and natural acids. |
| 2010 | Bergstrom | Rose | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Bergstrom Anderson Family | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2003 | Bergstrom Arcus Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 80.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Opulent, juicy and generous with its currant and blackberry flavors highly polished to bring out the spicy, slightly earthy overtones, lingering on the silky finish. Has tremendous power and length without great weight. |
| 2003 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 55.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Dark and dense, focusing its tarry currant, plum and pepper flavors into a vivid beam that persists through the fine-grained finish. Firm tannins need time to soften. |
| 2004 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 75.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Lovely stuff, elegant and refined, playing out its raspberry, blackberry and sassafras flavors with other exotic spice notes weaving through the extra-long finish. |
| 2008 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 78.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Firm in texture and tightly packed with red cherry, raspberry, caramel and sassafras aromas and flavors, extraordinarily well-structured despite its light weight and harmoniously hinting at wet stone flavors as the expressive finish persists. Needs time. |
| 2009 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 75.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Vivid ruby. Sexy, expansive aromas of red and dark berry liqueur, cola, star anise and fresh flowers, with a suave vanilla quality gaining strength with air. Sappy, deep and penetrating, offering a velvety texture and powerful raspberry and blackberry flavors. Shows the ripe side of the year but there's very good energy here too. The smooth, sweet finish offers impressive smoke- and spice-accented persistence. |
| 2005 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard - Dundee | Pinot Noir | | 75.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Supple, velvety and refined, this is a soft-spoken wine that has a lot to say with its delicate iris- and tar-accented black cherry and currant flavors that linger gently on the long, expressive finish. |
| 2006 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard - Dundee | Pinot Noir | | 75.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Polished, with a velvety edge to the gently spicy red plum and black raspberry fruit. A generous mouthful of flavor that doesn't get thick or dense, but instead lets the flavors hover enticingly over the long, expressive finish. |
| 2005 | Bergstrom Bergstrom Vineyard - Dundee - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 150.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Supple, velvety and refined, this is a soft-spoken wine that has a lot to say with its delicate iris and tar-accented black cherry and currant flavors that linger gently on the long, expressive finish. |
| 2003 | Bergstrom Cumberland Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 35.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Earthy mineral flavors add extra dimensions to this richly textured, elegant Pinot, offering raspberry and cherry notes as the finish persists against firm tannins. |
| 2005 | Bergstrom Cumberland Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 50.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Supple, velvety and refined, this is a soft-spoken wine that has a lot to say with its delicate iris- and tar-accented black cherry and currant flavors that linger gently on the long, expressive finish. |
| 2006 | Bergstrom Cumberland Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Smooth and ripe, with a meaty edge to the blackberry and cherry flavors, turning toward dark chocolate as the finish lingers generously. |
| 2008 | Bergstrom Cumberland Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 38.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Crisp in texture, this is a bit gritty with tannins, but the blackberry and currant fruit sings sweetly against hints of earth and spice through the long, deftly balanced finish. |
| 2005 | Bergstrom Cumberland Reserve - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 90.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Lithe, graceful, open-textured and appealing for its juicy blackberry and currant flavors. Hints at mineral and spice as the finish lingers against refined tannins. |
| 2008 | Bergstrom De Lancellotti | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Firm in texture and light on its feet, showing red cherry, raspberry and tangy lime flavors that pick up a distinct mineral note as the finish expands and rolls on and on. This has all the pieces to develop into something special. |
| 2009 | Bergstrom De Lancellotti | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 2 | |
| The wine is dark ruby red in color and offers up a potpourri nose of sweet baking spices, red currant, cherry and savory herbs. The intense mouth-feel is also very perfumed and is dominated by red raspberry, cherry and plum flavors and is framed by the vineyard’s trademark mouthwatering acidity and suave and silky ripe tannins. This wine is very pretty in nature but dense and brooding at the same time which makes de Lancellotti Vineyard a pleasure to drink young or age for 10 years. |
| 2005 | Bergstrom De Lancellotti Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Supple, graceful and generous with its currant and blackberry fruit, hinting at tomato leaf and rose petal as the finish waxes. The tannins are refined and well-submerged. |
| 2005 | Bergstrom De Lancellotti Vineyard - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 130.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Supple, graceful and generous with its currant and blackberry fruit, hinting at tomato leaf and rose petal as the finish waxes. The tannins are refined and well-submerged. |
| 2008 | Bergstrom Hyland Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 55.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Bergstrom Old Stones | Chardonnay | | 25.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2009 | Bergstrom Old Stones | Chardonnay | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Bergstrom Shea Pommard Clone | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Bergstrom Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Ripe, round and generous with its cherry and raspberry fruit, which sails smoothly over a bed of fine-grained tannins. The flavors persist impressively, picking up hints of spice and mineral notes on the finish. |
| 2007 | Bergstrom Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 1 | 89 |
| An airy style that plays its cherry and spice flavors over a soft bed of tannins. This is supple, lingering nicely. |
| 2007 | Bergstrom Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 2 | 89 |
| An airy style that plays its cherry and spice flavors over a soft bed of tannins. This is supple, lingering nicely. |
| 2008 | Bergstrom Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 48.00 | 2 | 89 |
| Light on its feet, with firm texture supporting refined cherry, raspberry and cinnamon flavors, lingering gently. |
| 2009 | Bergstrom Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 48.00 | 2 | 93 |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Bergstrom Shea Vineyard - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 130.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Ripe, round and generous with its cherry and raspberry fruit, which sails smoothly over a bed of fine-grained tannins. The flavors persist impressively, picking up hints of spice and mineral notes on the finish. |
| 2006 | Bergstrom Sigrid | Chardonnay | | 75.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Light and expressive, with pretty, tobacco-accented pear and floral aromas and flavors that slip easily through the delicate, polished finish. Chardonnay. |
| 2007 | Bergstrom Sigrid | Chardonnay | | 75.00 | 1 | 91 |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | Bergstrom Sigrid | Chardonnay | | 75.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Bergstrom Sigrid | Chardonnay | | 75.00 | 2 | NYR |
| Aromas of honeysuckle, brioche, lime blossom, fresh-cream and pear with a kiss of almond entice the palate as the wine is swirled in the glass. The attack is generous and strikes a balance between full-bodied /ripe and classically structured chardonnay and lithe floral expression framed with juicy, mouth-watering acids, and an intense Oregon minerality. |
| 2009 | Bethel Heights | Chardonnay | | 25.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Tangy and appealing for its tightly knit tangerine, pear and spice flavors, finishing with zip. |
| 2010 | Bethel Heights | Pinot Blanc | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2010 | Bethel Heights | Pinot Gris | | 16.00 | 0 | |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Bethel Heights Flat Block | Pinot Noir | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Supple and graceful. Shows real presence, with creamy cherry and huckleberry flavors, finishing on a creamy note. Lingers artfully against refreshing acidity. |
| 2005 | Betz Pere de Famille | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 0 | 97 |
| The fragrance is almost otherworldly; sweet, dense and lightly lifted. This is a sinewy wine, that begins with compact power and focused, tart red fruits—predominantly raspberry and currant. At first juicy and tart, with hours of breathing time the wine broadens out into a wider spectrum of Cabernet fruits; cassis, blackberry and black cherry. |
| 2007 | Bodega Teso La Monja Victorino | Tinta De Toro | | 40.00 | 1 | 91 |
| 1998 | Boizel Brut | Champagne | | 65.00 | 1 | 91 |
| The richer vintage wines from Boizel are often best with food. This 1998, a blend of 55% Pinot Noir and 45% Chardonnay, has the right combination of creaminess and richness along with flavors of raspberries and fresh acidity. |
| 1999 | Boizel Brut | Champagne | | 65.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Honey and white fruit aromas are followed by a soft, easy wine that has creaminess, pear flavors and fresh acidity. It is rich, gentle and at its peak of maturity. |
| NV | Boizel Brut Reserve | Champagne | | 45.00 | 0 | 90 |
| No notes |
| 1996 | Boizel Joyau De France | Champagne | | 140.00 | 1 | 94 |
| The color is brilliant, golden yellow, the effervescence fine and persistent mousse and a delicate creamy ... |
| 2009 | Borsao Tres Picos | Grenache | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2010 | Borsao White | White Wine | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| 2005 | Bouchard Pere & Fils Nuits-Saint-George | Red Burgundy | | 75.00 | 3 | 91 |
| A modern style, clean and polished, with black cherry, raspberry and spice flavors backed by firm tannins. Shows concentration, with a tough finish now. Needs time. |
| 2007 | Broadley Vineyards Claudia's Choice - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 100.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2009 | Brovia D'Alba Sori Del Drago | Barbera | | 30.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Good full, deep ruby-red. Bitter cherry, crushed black fruits, leather and flowers on the perfumed nose; conveys an impression of noble rusticity. Juicy, very fresh and pure, with outstanding density to its dark berry and licorice flavors. Wonderfully sappy, energetic barbera with a rich, long, almost saline finish featuring firm tannins for the variety. This very strong barbera invites you to eat and drink. |
| 2008 | Brovia Nebbiolo D'Alba Valmaggione | Nebbiolo | | 30.00 | 2 | 88 |
| Moderately saturated medium red. Liqueur-like aromas of red fruits, with a lightly medicinal character. Supple but quite dry and savory. Offers fresh red fruits in the middle palate but finishes distinctly uncompromising, with substantial dusty tannins. A tad rustic. |
| 2008 | Buisson-Charles Mersault Bouches-Cheres | White Burgundy | | 75.00 | 2 | 93 |
| As elegant as the Goutte d’Or is, the Bouchères goes it one better with its mélange of white peach, spiced pear and dried rose petal aromas that slide gracefully into precise yet quite densely textured flavors that brim with dry extract and superb length. This is an explosive wine that finishes bone dry and manages to combine impressive power with balance and focus. I actually prefer the delivery of this to the Goutte d’Or but at present at least, it doesn’t quite have the same degree of complexity. A qualitative choice but both are worth considering. |
| 2008 | Buisson-Charles Mersault Las Cras | White Burgundy | | 75.00 | 2 | 91 |
| A slightly riper yet more elegant and more reserved aromatic profile presents itself, reluctantly offering up aromas of citrus, white flower and yellow orchard fruits that merge into dense, serious and mouth coating medium- |
| 2005 | Cana's Feast | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Canoe Ridge Reserve Block 1 | Cabernet | | 35.00 | 2 | 90 |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Canoe Ridge Reserve Block 13 | Merlot | | 30.00 | 2 | 90 |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Cantina Del Pino Barbaresco | Barbaresco | | 52.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Very attractive aromas of crushed blackberry, mineral and spices follow through to a full body, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Structured and rich. Well-crafted. |
| 2005 | Casanova Di Neri Pietradonice | Cabernet | | 115.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Dark ruby in color. Blackberry, mint and mineral aromas follow through to a full body, with superpolished tannins and a long, long finish. This is structured and very beautiful. |
| 2006 | Casanova Di Neri Pietradonice | Cabernet | | 115.00 | 2 | 93 |
| This full, plump and generous Cabernet Sauvignon offers loads of ripe fruit, smoothness and intensity. If you love rich, sun-filled red wines from Tuscany, this is a perfect choice. In the mouth, you get firm tannins and bright cherry flavors on the close. Excellent. |
| 2004 | Casanova di Neri Cerretalto | Sangiovese | | 175.00 | 1 | 98 |
| Very powerful and rich, with blackberry, licorice and light toasty oak. This has pure fruit. Turns exotic and decadent. Big and full-bodied, with dense, powerful tannins, but velvety and beautiful. Layered and gorgeous. |
| 2005 | Cave De Tain Hermitage Blanc - Au Couer des Siecles | Marsanne | | 50.00 | 1 | 89 |
| 2004 | Caymus | Cabernet | | 70.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Here is an extrodinary wine to add to your cellar. It's a guaranteed ager. Supported by rich, sturdy tannins, it shows firm, dry mouthfeel and deep flavors of blackberries, with a seamless hem of toasty oak. So balance, so powerful and elegant, it's at the top of its class. Should cellar well for 10 or more years. |
| 2005 | Charles Audoin Marsannay Les Favieres | Red Burgundy | | 45.00 | 2 | 88 |
| This frank, earthy red is concentrated and robust, with black cherry and plum notes. It's fresh and backed by burly tannins. A wine for pot-au-feu or coq au vin. |
| 2005 | Charles Audoin Marsannay Les longeroies | Red Burgundy | | 40.00 | 1 | 88 |
| Concentrated and well-structured. There's a core of black cherry and wild berry notes, and this ends with a stony, mineral flourish. Just a tad dry. |
| NV | Chartogne-Taillet Sainte-Anne | Champagne | | 44.00 | 0 | 90 |
| A firm Champagne, offering tightly wound flavors of currant, blackberry and butter, with a hint of malt. The spicy acidity provides definition and cut, with a smoky thread lingering on the modest finish. |
| 2005 | Chateau D'Argadens | Bordeaux | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Chateau D'Issan | Bordeaux | | 70.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Displays blackberry and black licorice aromas, with some tar. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a long finish. Tight and structured. |
| 2005 | Chateau Fonbadet | Bordeaux | | 30.00 | 0 | 91 |
| A simply elegant nose. Brown sugar, pencil lead and Bounce fabric softener. Extremely silky and elegant, especially given its bigger body. Great earthiness and minerally. Wine of the tasting. 60/20/15/5 Cab Sauv, Merlot, Cab Franc and Petit Verdot/Malbec. |
| 2003 | Chateau Fortia Cuvée du Baron | Rhone | | 32.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Packed with bramble, tar, red currant, licorice and cocoa, this muscular Châteauneuf gives way to briary tannins and smoke. Big, fruit-packed finish. Equal parts Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. |
| 2005 | Chateau Haut-Bages Liberal | Bordeaux | | 45.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Very aromatic, showing blackberry and currant aromas, with some licorice. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a rich, decadent, fruity finish. Caresses the palate. Stylish and opulent. |
| 2003 | Chateau Haut-Brion | Bordeaux | | 300.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Complex aromas of black licorice, tobacco and cedar with red fruits. Full-bodied, with superseductive, silky tannins, loads of fruit and a finish that lasts for minutes. A beauty in all the sense of the word. |
| 2007 | Chateau La Borie | Rhone | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2001 | Chateau Lafite Rothschild | Bordeaux | | 155.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Stick your nose in this and it says something?"I am special." Deep and generous aromas of blackberries, fresh tobacco and minerals. It's full-bodied, with big velvety tannins and a superlong finish. Like a fine cashmere sweater. Best after 2010. |
| 2002 | Chateau Lafite Rothschild | Bordeaux | | 170.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Bubbling over with crushed berries, currants and spices, with tobacco notes. Beautiful. Full-bodied, with gorgeously velvety tannins and a long finish of pretty fruit. This is a racy yet elegant Lafite. Classy. |
| 2004 | Chateau Lafite Rothschild | Bordeaux | | 400.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Intense aromas of currant, coffee, toasty oak and sweet tobacco follow through to a full-bodied palate, with velvety tannins, great mouthfeel and a long finish. A refined Lafite. |
| 2000 | Chateau Leoville Barton | Bordeaux | | 150.00 | 1 | 97 |
| Amazingly rich and silky. Lots of chocolate and blackberry aromas with hints of raspberries. Full-bodied, with silky, round tannins. Great concentration. Long, long finish. This is the biggest, most powerful ever from Léoville Barton. |
| 2001 | Chateau Leoville Barton | Bordeaux | | 50.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Gorgeous aromas of crushed blackberries and flowers. Medium- to full-bodied, with well-knit tannins and a silky, caressing palate. Long. This is a wonderful wine. Lots of finesse. |
| 2004 | Chateau Leoville Barton | Bordeaux | | 40.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Very pretty and perfumed, with plum, vanilla and chocolate aromas. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a long, caressing finish. |
| 1999 | Chateau Leoville Las Cases | Bordeaux | | 85.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Warm and exciting wine from a slightly frigid vintage. Black ruby color. Rich and powerful nose, with loads of currant, smoke and tobacco. Full-bodied and silky, polished and long'very pretty indeed. |
| 2003 | Chateau Leoville Las Cases | Bordeaux | | 215.00 | 2 | 97 |
| Incredible nose of crushed berry, licorice, violets and lightly toasted oak. Pure crème de cassis. Full-bodied, with big, velvety tannins and a long, long finish. |
| 2005 | Chateau Leoville Las Cases | Bordeaux | | 350.00 | 1 | 100 |
| This is breathtaking. Black in color, with incredible aromas of crushed blackberry, mineral, licorice and lead pencil. Full-bodied, with a mind-blowing texture of seamless tannins that coat every millimeter of the palate. Goes on and on, with licorice, currant and flowers. Time will tell if it's better than the 2000 |
| 2000 | Chateau Lynch Bages | Bordeaux | | 110.00 | 1 | 96 |
| #1 wine for Wine Enthusiast 2003. Gorgeous aromas of plums, blackberries and licorice, with hints of mineral. Full-bodied, with full, silky tannins and a long, long finish. Big and solid. Fantastic. If you love Lynch, you won't be disappointed. |
| 2001 | Chateau Lynch Bages | Bordeaux | | 50.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Clean and sleek, with tobacco, berry and plum character, medium body and a silky, fresh finish. Firm and balanced Lynch. |
| 2003 | Chateau Lynch Bages | Bordeaux | | 65.00 | 2 | 92 |
| A wine with silky, refined tannins and delicate fruit. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and a lovely long, textured finish. This builds on the palate. More subtle than I remember. |
| 2009 | Chateau Montelena Napa Valley | Chardonnay | | 45.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Bright yellow. Lively aromas of apple, citrus fruit, mint and licorice. Juicy and vibrant, with almost painful mid-palate cut. Still youthfully tight, but this no-malo chardonnay displays good underlying density. The persistent finish shows good cut. Clearly the product of a moderately cool growing season. Montelena's chardonnay is vinified to dryness in tank, then ages for several months in 10% new oak, on the fine lees but without stirring. I suspect this will evolve slowly. |
| 2004 | Chateau Mouton Rothschild | Bordeaux | | 175.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Beautiful aromas of crushed berries and chocolate, with hints of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with silky, velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. A lovely wine for the vintage. This is the first wine from the new winemaking team at Mouton and is showing really well. |
| 2005 | Chateau Nenin | Bordeaux | | 70.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Very grapey on the nose, with mineral, tarragon and fresh flowers. Full-bodied, with very well-integrated tannins and a light vanilla, berry and milk chocolate aftertaste. Subtle and balanced. The best Nenin in years. |
| 2001 | Chateau Palmer | Bordeaux | | 110.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Extremely pretty, with flowers, berries, chocolate and spices. Full-bodied, with a solid core of fruit and ripe, silky tannins; long and caressing. Beautiful. Palmer shows wonderful refinement. |
| 2005 | Chateau Rauzan-Segla | Bordeaux | | 100.00 | 2 | 97 |
| Very beautiful aromas of crushed berry, flowers, currant and Indian spices follow through to a full body, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long finish. Extremely polished and beautiful, with a seamless texture. |
| 2007 | Chateau St Jean Durell Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 1995 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Smooth and juicy, with black cherry and blackberry sliding gently over the supple structure, echoing fruit and chocolate on the finish. Stylish, with immediate appeal and more going on with each sip. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. |
| 1996 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 87 |
| Has a tough edge to the spicy mushroom and cherry flavors, clamping down on the finish with some formidable tannins. Needs cellaring, but it shows promise. |
| 1997 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Stylish and graceful, it's light and silky, with pretty blackberry and wild plum notes shining through the modest tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. |
| 1998 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Ripe and appealing, with an aristocratic feel. A pretty wine, generous with its currant, blackberry and spicy-vanilla flavors on a supple frame. |
| 1999 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Beautifully polished and lithe, with lovely plum and currant flavors that persist into a long, firm-textured finish, shaded by hints of white pepper and cream. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with Cabernet Franc. |
| 2000 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Firm and finely focused, with lovely, spicy blueberry and currant flavors at the core, pointing nicely through the fine-grained tannins into a long, elegant finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. |
| 2001 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| No notes available |
| 2002 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| This Meritage blend includes 10% Merlot and 20% Malbec. It is a soft, chocolaty wine with bright raspberry/cherry fruit and plenty of new oak flavors. The oak is still tough and bitter; it has not had sufficient time to soften. |
| 2003 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 56.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Broad, supple and aromatic with spicy, cedary character, generous with its rich blueberry, plum and currant flavors, immensely appealing for its polish and harmony, even when a raisiny note presents itself on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. |
| 2004 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| 2005 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 92 |
| The 2004 Meritage Artist Series is 51% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Merlot, 11% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot aged for 20 months in 73% new oak. Purple-colored, it has a Bordeaux-like nose of pencil lead, scorched earth, espresso roast, black currant, and blackberry. This leads to a structured wine with a supple texture, layers of spicy flavors, plenty of complexity, and a 45+ second finish. It will evolve for 6-8 years and drink well through 2034. |
| 2006 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Firm and focused, with ripe currant, plum and spice flavors, picking up a green tobacco note as the finish persists against refined tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. |
| 2007 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Chateau Ste Michelle Artist Series | Meritage | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Chateau Ste Michelle Canoe Ridge | Merlot | | 22.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 1997 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 29.00 | 1 | NYR |
| Ripe black stone fruits predominate in the aroma, with nuances of cassis and leather. The intense black cherry and cassis flavors ride high on well structured tannins and linger in the finish where they are joined by hints of toasty oak and allspice. |
| 1998 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 29.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Ripe and focused Cabernet, generous with its supple currant and delicate herb flavors, which echo nicely on the open-textured finish. The tannins are soft and hardly evident. |
| 1999 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 29.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Ripe, rich and nicely packed, with blueberry-scented currant and spice flavors, finishing with fine tannins and a wonderful open texture. |
| 2000 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 29.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Firm, with olive-scented blackberry and black pepper flavors, finishing with a subtle licorice character as it all lingers on the smoky finish. |
| 2001 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 29.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Firm, almost aristocratic in stature, with bay leaf-scented black cherry, sage and cedar aromas and flavors persisting on a crisp frame. Feels tightly wound, ready to unfurl with cellaring |
| 2002 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 30.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Concentrated blackberry, dark chocolate and vanilla aromas with hints of earth and oak. This wine is intense, extracted and rich in flavors and texture. |
| 2003 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 25.00 | 1 | 88 |
| Firm in texture, reticent in flavor, with modest blackberry and smoke flavors weaving through the chewy tannins, lingering delicately on the finish. |
| 2004 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 26.00 | 1 | 91 |
| This is pure Cabernet from one of Washington’s oldest vineyards. Cold Creek is a hot site, and its grapes are scattered throughout many of the Ste. Michelle brands, often providing the core fruit. Here is the essence, a wine that opens a bit grudgingly, but has structure and concentration if you take the time to let it blossom. Dense cherry and cassis fruit is tightly wound with balancing acids. The use of new oak is restrained, but sufficient, and this is a wine that should age nicely for many years. |
| 2005 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 30.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Firm and chewy, with grippy tannins around a lean, focused core of tarry blackberry and other black fruit flavors. Needs time to soften. |
| 2006 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 28.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Ripe in flavor, with crisp tannins around a core of black cherry and cola flavors, lingering on the lively finish. |
| 2007 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek | Cabernet | | 28.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Features firm tannins up front, but the suppleness underneath carries polished blueberry and currant fruit past hints of sage and spice notes. Finishes with grace. |
| 2009 | Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek Vineyard | Cabernet Franc | | 30.00 | 1 | 89 |
| It’s a pleasure to see a Cold Creek Cabernet Franc once again, here blended with 17% Cabernet Sauvignon. Forward, young and showing plenty of new oak,not yet fully integrated, it has enormous potential, based on the tight purple and black fruit that is considerably masked at the moment. Give this one some years in the cellar, and it should reward you. |
| 2009 | Chateau Ste Michelle Eroica | Riesling | | 24.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Light and tart, the acidity balanced against gentle sweetness as the tangy grapefruit and apple flavors linger beautifully. |
| 2001 | Chateau Ste Michelle Eroica Single Berry Select | Riesling | | 200.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Dark gold and hugely aromatic, a noseful of mineral-, pepper- and spice-scented pear and honey notes, ultrarich and silky, with honey, apricot, baked apple, tropical fruit and clotted cream flavors that just don't quit. Sensational stuff. Try to keep hands off to see it develop. |
| 2006 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos | Cabernet | | 40.00 | 1 | 90 |
| No notes available |
| 2007 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos | Cabernet | | 40.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos | Merlot | | 31.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Firm and generous, offering a plush mouthful of red berry and black cherry fruit, shaded with hints of wet earth, exotic spices and tomato leaf on the long, refined finish. Ends with elegance. |
| 2008 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos | Syrah | | 30.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos | Merlot | | 40.00 | 0 | 92 |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos | Merlot | | 32.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Chateau Ste Michelle Ethos Late Harvest White Riesling | Riesling | | 40.00 | 1 | 97 |
| Has amazing balance and depth, splaying out its lime-scented apricot and honey flavors, then pulling it all together into a tremendously long, exquisitely balanced finish that hints at all sorts of spice and floral notes. An utterly seamless wine that has the balance to age gracefully |
| 2005 | Chateau Vaissiere Minervois | Rhone | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Chehalem 3 Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 32.00 | 0 | 91 |
| Fragrant with blueberry and floral aromas, which persist into the flavor profile along with hints of mineral and cream, sailing smoothly over fine-grained tannins on a graceful frame. |
| 2006 | Cline Ancient Vines | Zinfandel | | | 1 | |
| 2005 | Clos Du Mont-Olivet Cuvee Unique | Rhone | | 40.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Harmony, beauty, resonant flavors that travel for miles on the tongue. A touch of classic Mont-Olivet sandalwood blends with caramel and candied ginger on the peppery, perfumed nose. Wonderful texture on the mouth, with a concentration that is deep but not overly weighty. We love the delicious tension that holds each sip together before it bursts into a firework display of red fruits and electricity on the palate. A blend of 70% Grenache, 25% Syrah, the rest Mourvèdre and a southern Rhône field blend of older-vine nobility. |
| 2006 | Clos Du Mont-Olivet Cuvee Unique | Rhone | | 45.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Silky, but with solid grip in the background, holding the fig, currant and blackberry fruit at bay, while roasted sage, tobacco and spice notes flitter throughout. Has a very silky, pure finish. |
| 2007 | Clos Du Mont-Olivet Cuvee Unique | Rhone | | 45.00 | 2 | 93 |
| A gorgeous, silky, perfumy style, with tea and incense leading the way for supple-textured raspberry, black fig and mulled currant fruit notes. A perfumy note weaves through the minerally finish, with very fine-grained structure. Stylish for the vintage. |
| 2007 | Clos Du Mont-Olivet Serre de Catin | Rhone | | 25.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2004 | Clos du Caillou Reserve | Rhone | | 150.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| 2007 | Clos du Caillou Vielles Vignes | Rhone | | 22.50 | 2 | 89 |
| Shows the ripe, juicy, almost jammy fruit of the vintage, with plum, fig and raspberry notes held together by an underlying graphite edge. A smoky note chimes in on the finish, which has nice latent grip. |
| 2009 | Clos du Caillou Vielles Vignes | Rhone | | 25.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 1995 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Rich in flavor but remarkably light, with deftly balanced currant, blackberry and slightly herbal flavors in a supple if somewhat narrow frame. Elegant and graceful, with soft tannins. The first wine from the partnership between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Italy's Marchesi Antinori. |
| 1996 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 92 |
| This red blend from Washington displays remarkable density of flavor on a sleek frame. A smooth and generous wine, its black raspberry, cherry, currant and coffee flavors wrap themselves seductively in a blanket of fine-grained tannins. Lasts and lasts on the finish. From the partnership between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Italy's Marchesi Antinori. Contains 85 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 15 percent Merlot. |
| 1997 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Rich, round and distinctive for its earthy, meaty overtones around a supple core of berry, currant and floral flavors. The firmly tannic finish enriches and expands, echoing fruit and spice with flair. |
| 1998 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 91 |
| particularly stylish red, rich and resonant, with a powerful mouthful of black cherry, anise, black pepper and cedar flavors, all echoing elegantly on the open-textured, focused finish. |
| 1999 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Firm and focused, built for balance over power, with an undercurrent of black cherry and currant fruit running under several layers of dusky spice and dried herb notes. It all echoes on the chewy finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Malbec. |
| 2000 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | NYR |
| Highly concentrated raspberry, vanilla bean and Belgian dark chocolate aromatics are threaded with anise,clove and cinnamon. |
| 2001 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Generous and open, a lively mouthful of dark berry, currant, licorice, pepper and sweet smoke flavors that linger on a raw edge of juicy acidity and crisp tannins, finishing with distinction and depth. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Malbec. |
| 2002 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Intense an ripe aromas of black fruit, dried fig, cedar and sweet spice mingle with rich flavors of blackberry and hints of vanilla. Round and refined tannins. |
| 2003 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 94 |
| 90 Points Wine Spectator. Firm in texture, with generous blueberry and currant fruit pushing through the layer of chewy tannins, persisting as hints of minerality and spice weave through the finely balanced finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. |
| 2004 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Tasted right after bottling, this new release from the high-profile Ste. Michelle/Antinori Red Mountain project may be the finest Col Solare to date. The blend is 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 17% Merlot, and a splash each of Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot. Half is Horse Heaven Hills fruit, one quarter Cold Creek and one quarter Wahluke Slope. This is a chewy, muscular wine, dense with plummy fruit, and layered with flavors of earth, soy and black tea. There is a hint of baked, pruney flavor that is restrained enough to add interest rather than detract. |
| 2005 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 70.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Aromas of black cherry, berry and dark chocolate fuse with smooth notes of vanilla and spice. Rich and balanced on the palate, this wine finishes with long, lingering flavors of cocoa, black fruits, and vanilla. A blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc. |
| 2006 | Col Solare | Red Blend | | 75.00 | 1 | 92 |
| A polished red, delivering a lively mouthful of blueberry and currant fruit shaded with nice hints of cream and white pepper. The finish lingers seductively. This is distinctive—and much smoother in texture than previous vintages. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and others. |
| 2002 | Col Solare - Magnum | Red Blend | | 150.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Intense an ripe aromas of black fruit, dried fig, cedar and sweet spice mingle with rich flavors of blackberry and hints of vanilla. Round and refined tannins. |
| 1999 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 30.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Just delicious. Round and generous, this is a plush mouthful of pepper- and mocha-scented black cherry, blackberry and smoky flavors, which echo on the fine-grained finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. |
| 2000 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 35.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Firm in texture, but remarkably graceful and harmonious, on the lighter side for a Cabernet-based wine, offering peppery blackberry and currant flavors that persist impressively on the graceful finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. |
| 2001 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 35.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Firm, with a lovely bead of ripe currant, blueberry and sweet spice flavor coursing through a long, lively finish. Tannins are nicely polished and the fruit prevails against oaky character on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. |
| 2002 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 35.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Polished, lithe and seductive, its ripe currant and blueberry fruit shaded nicely with peppery, creamy oak notes that still let the fruit persist beautifully through the long, silky finish. |
| 2003 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 35.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Ripe and spicy, with an earthy edge to the blackberry and cherry flavors, finishing with distinction. The crisp tannins could use some time to soften. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. |
| 2004 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 44.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Firm in texture, with crisp tannins around a polished core of currant and boysenberry fruit, tipping toward cedar and spice as the tangy finish persists. Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. |
| 2005 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 35.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Ripe and polished, with gorgeous chocolate-tinged black currant, black raspberry and coffee notes swirling through the long, vivid finish. Tempting now, but should develop more with cellaring. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc |
| 2006 | Columbia Crest Walter Clore | Red Blend | | 30.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Bright and crisp, with a red pepper edge to the cherry and herb flavors, lingering easily. Long on grace and refinement. |
| 1998 | Columbia Winery Milestone - Magnum | Merlot | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2000 | Columbia Winery Peninsula | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2001 | Columbia Winery Peninsula | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Concha Y Toro Terrunyo | Carmenere | | 41.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Dark in profile, with plum and currant fruit, but very pure, with silky tannins and a long, stylish finish that lets incense, spice and mineral notes play out. |
| 2007 | Copain Tous Ensemble | Syrah | | 25.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2001 | Cos-d'Estournel | Bordeaux | | 65.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Wonderful spice and currant aromas to this young wine. Full-bodied, with super well?integrated, refined tannins. Long caressing finish. This is very, very silky. Just like from barrel. Cos is on top of it now. |
| 2002 | Cos-d'Estournel | Bordeaux | | 70.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Gorgeous aromas of currants and berries with hints of licorice. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a pretty finish. Silky. This is extremely good for the vintage. The team of Cos worked hard on their 2002 and it shows. |
| 2003 | Cos-d'Estournel | Bordeaux | | 150.00 | 2 | 97 |
| Gorgeous aromas of blackberry, spice and mineral. Full-bodied, with ultrafine tannins and a long, long finish. This is first-growth quality. |
| 2004 | Cos-d'Estournel | Bordeaux | | 80.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Loads of currant and blackberry, with hints of Indian spices. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a long, caressing finish. Round and generous for the vintage. |
| 2007 | Cougar Crest | Cabernet Franc | | 30.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Cristom Eileen - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 110.00 | 1 | 91 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Cristom Jessie - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 110.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Light, bright red. Deeper and darker than the Eileen, offering black raspberry, cherry pit and dried rose aromas; spiciness builds with air and carries onto the palate. Fresh blackberry and bitter cherry flavors are enlivened by zesty minerality. Finishes silky and impressively long, with no obvious tannins, a repeating spicy quality, and lingering notes of cherry skin and anise. |
| 2000 | Cristom Jessie Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 39.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Dense and chewy, almost aggressive in style, with raucous wild blackberry and green herb flavors, finishing a bit hot. Needs time to settle down. |
| 2001 | Cristom Jessie Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Elegant, airy texture lets the orange peel–scented berry and sweet leather flavors waft enticingly through the long finish. Drink now through |
| 2002 | Cristom Jessie Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 1 | 92 |
| The strong earthy character detracts from the otherwise pretty raspberry and plum flavors. |
| 2005 | Cristom Louise - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 110.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Crisp, fairly tart, balance plays against ripe blackberry and currant flavors that get fleshier and more generous as the finish rolls on. The tannins are polished. |
| 2009 | Cristom Oregon | Pinot Gris | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2001 | Cuvée du Vatican | Rhone | | 35.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Beautiful. Rich, ripe, and generous, this abundant, full-bodied wine will fill your palate with joy, delivering elegance and class as well as lots of plum, mineral, some smoke and a stony character. Long finish. Fabulous. |
| 2003 | Cuvée du Vatican | Rhone | | 32.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Terrifically juicy blackberry and black cherry fruit gets pushed by briar, tar and mineral notes, then followed by a powerful, smoky finish. Long, with lots of ripe structure. |
| 2003 | Cuvée du Vatican Sixtine Réserve | Rhone | | 55.00 | 2 | 95 |
| A superb core of blackberry, boysenberry and black currant fruit stands amidst cocoa, mineral, licorice and tar flavors. Densely structured but perfectly ripe, with a long finish that cascades with both fruit and terroir. Awesome for its power and balance |
| 2010 | Cypher | Grenache Blanc | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Domaine De Calet Grand Mas | Rhone | | 15.00 | 1 | NYR |
| 2006 | Domaine De Calet Long Terme | Rhone | | 12.00 | 1 | NYR |
| 2005 | Domaine Drouhin | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Crisp and lively, with juicy cherry and raspberry flavors under a veil of fine, peppery tannins, lingering on the light finish. |
| 2007 | Domaine La Bouissiere | Rhone | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| A blend of Grenache, Syrah and a touch of Mourvèdre, hand-harvested and sorted from multiple passes from a steep mountain vineyard perched on the sides of the Dentelles de Montmirail; aged primarily in older barrels. A knock-out wine. |
| 2005 | Domaine La Milliere Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Rhone | | 35.00 | 2 | 94 |
| An exciting effort from this estate is the 2005 Chateauneuf du Pape Vieilles Vignes, which is a blend of 60% Grenache and equal parts Syrah, Cinsault, Mourvedre, and Counoise. The wine has a deep plum/ruby/garnet color and an expressive nose of blue and red fruits intermixed with some incense, pepper, and spice box. It is full-bodied, lush, with terrific fruit, silky tannins, and decent acidity. This is a wine to drink over the next decade. |
| 2007 | Domaine La Milliere Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Rhone | | 40.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Reveals gorgeous aromas of spring flowers, crushed black cherries, ink, lavender, and spice. The wine is dense ruby/purple-hued, deep, and full-bodied with terrific concentration, a layered texture, and a stunningly long finish. It should drink beautifully young, yet age for 15 or more years. |
| 2007 | Domaine La Milliere Vieille Vignes | Rhone | | 20.00 | 0 | 88 |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | Domaine Leflaive Macon-Verze | White Burgundy | | 40.00 | 1 | 91 |
| An impressively full wine, its ripe apricot flavors melding seamlessly into rich wood and concentrated flavors. The lemon acidity enlivens the ripe yellow fruits, leaving a rich final impression. |
| NV | Domaine Ruinart Blanc de Blancs | Champagne | | 75.00 | 0 | 91 |
| There's a pleasing savory quality here, as hints of dried herb and spice mix with peach, cream, kumquat and pastry flavors. Lively acidity enlivens the wine, leading to a mouthwatering finish. |
| 2006 | Domaine Sainte-Eugenie La Reserve Corbieres | Rhone | | 17.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2004 | Domaine Serene Evanstad Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 52.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Firm in texture. Aromatic, with dark plum and gentle spice notes, and generous with its pure blackberry and currant flavors, persisting enticingly on the fine-grained finish. |
| 2005 | Domaine Serene Evanstad Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 58.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Lithe in texture, with a distinctive range of red cherry, black cherry, cinnamon and mocha flavors that ride smoothly over a graceful frame, lingering nicely on the clear, expressive finish. |
| 2005 | Domaine Serene Evanstad Reserve - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 120.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Lithe in texture, with a distinctive range of red cherry, black cherry, cinnamon and mocha flavors that ride smoothly over a graceful frame, lingering nicely on the clear, expressive finish. |
| 2005 | Domaine Serene Jerusalem Hill | Pinot Noir | | 75.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Silky, refined and unexpectedly generous on the finish, this sashays over the palate with lots in reserve. Starts with pretty currant and blackberry fruit, then deepens with hints of cream, slate and chalk notes, all the while retaining a sense of sweetness and elegance. |
| 2005 | Domaine Serene Jerusalem Hill - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 175.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Silky, refined and unexpectedly generous on the finish, this sashays over the palate with lots in reserve. Starts with pretty currant and blackberry fruit, then deepens with hints of cream, slate and chalk notes, all the while retaining a sense of sweetness and elegance. |
| 2005 | Domaine Taupenot-Merme Bougnogne | Red Burgundy | | 25.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2005 | Domaine Taupenot-Merme Gevrey Chambertin | Red Burgundy | | 45.00 | 1 | 88 |
| A combination of richness and muscle, this red tastes like black cherry, tobacco and freshly turned earth. A bit chewy on the back end. |
| 2005 | Domaine Taupenot-Merme Mazoyeres Chambertin | Red Burgundy | | 110.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Slight animal and herbaceous aromas lead off, giving way to an elegant style of Gevrey, with black cherry and blackberry flavors. This is firm but has lightweight tannins and a chocolate note on the lingering finish |
| 2005 | Domaine Taupenot-Merme Morey Saint Denis | Red Burgundy | | 45.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Bright and lively, this red exhibits wild berry, red currant and cherry notes. There's a firm base of tannins, but this has the requisite fruit to match. Gets better with each sip. |
| 2007 | Domaine de Fabregues "le domaine" | Rhone | | 15.00 | 1 | 90 |
| This powerful red has a chewy, minerally allure, with raspberry and red plum flavors that are backed up by fresh acidity. There's spice and bittersweet chocolate on the pure-tasting finish. |
| 2007 | Domaine de Marcoux | Rhone | | 71.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Ripe and winey, with a solid core of mulled currant, crushed raspberry and bramble notes laced with hints of ganache, incense and black tea. The finish is long, solid and authoritative. Should blossom in the cellar. |
| 2004 | Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe La Crau | Rhone | | 55.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Pure and silky, with raspberry, cocoa, truffle and mineral notes that glide along the fresh acidity. The long, silky finish lets the fruit and minerality hang nicely, with garrigue in the background. Should blossom in the cellar. |
| 2006 | Dr. Loosen - Beerenauslese | Riesling | | 25.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Made from an early picking of botrytized grapes from the Bernkasteler Lay vineyard, this is a sweet, plump wine, filled to the brim with lush tropical fruit flavors. The aromas show remarkably pure pear and pineapple scents, with just a touch of dried apricots but also a sense of slate-driven minerality. |
| 2004 | Dr. Loosen Auslese - Erdner Pralat | Riesling | | 60.00 | 1 | 93 |
| There's a nutty, leesy component to this white, which should dissipate as the peach, citrus and white pepper and mineral notes come forward with time. It's juicy and ends with a mouthwatering finish. |
| 2003 | Dr. Loosen Auslese - Gold Cap - Wehlener Sonnenuhr | Riesling | | 65.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Clean, focused and packed with apricot, lime and mineral aromas and flavors, this '03 auslese shows harmony and length. A little tightly wound at this point, but patience will be repaid about 12 to 15 years |
| 2004 | Dr. Loosen Auslese - Graacher Himmelreich | Riesling | | 35.00 | 2 | 90 |
| This is Chardonnay, pure and unadorned, with apple, grapefruit and spice notes and a crisp finish |
| 2005 | Dr. Loosen Auslese - Urziger Wurzgarten | Riesling | | 40.00 | 1 | 95 |
| A gentle white, whose Golden Delicious apple, peach and citrus flavors gather intensity as the acidity emerges toward the finish. Balanced. Needs time to integrate. |
| 2006 | Dr. Loosen Auslese - Urziger Wurzgarten | Riesling | | 42.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Almost racy, with a sleek profile and a strong mineral character. Lime, apple and vanilla play supporting flavors, with a nice mouthwatering finish. This has intensity. |
| 2005 | Dr. Loosen Auslese - Wehlener Sonnenuhr | Riesling | | 40.00 | 1 | 95 |
| This light-weight, intensely flavored Riesling shows fine crunch and snap thanks to the acidity, which creates a foil for the peach, lime and vanilla custard flavors that are woven into the creamy texture. |
| 2006 | Dr. Loosen Spatlese - Urziger Wurzgarten | Riesling | | 32.00 | 2 | 90 |
| A sleek, delineated Riesling, sporting lime, peach and slate flavors, with a tangy, lip-smacking profile. Light-weight and flavorful, with a lingering aftertaste. |
| NV | Duval Leroy Brut | Champagne | | 40.00 | 0 | 92 |
| No notes |
| 2000 | E. Guigal Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Rhone | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Intriguing red, with some nice Châteauneuf complexity and wild herbs, leather, game. Modest fruit aromas in this mature Châteauneuf, which offers some wet earth and smoke aromas, but turns a bit tough on the finish. Medium-bodied, firm finish. |
| 2001 | E. Guigal Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Rhone | | 40.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Old-fashioned, this full-bodied traditional wine seduces with its decadent game, saddle-leather, plum and sautéed wild mushroom aromas. No hint of fancy oak, just a mouthful of Châteauneuf character that swirls around to a long, sweet finish. Another great négoce red from Guigal. |
| 2003 | E. Guigal Chateauneuf-du-Pape | Rhone | | 40.00 | 1 | 87 |
| Dough and sweet earth notes lend a slightly firm feel to the roasted plum and currant fruit, which runs through the finish, but turns rigidly tannic. A bit of a gamble to see if it will soften before the fruit fades. |
| 2003 | E. Guigal Crozes-Hermitage | Rhone | | 20.00 | 1 | 91 |
| The dense purple-colored 2003 Crozes-Hermitage possesses sumptuous aromas of tapenade, creme de cassis, cherries, and spice. Beautifully-textured, full, and long, it will offer impressive drinking over the next 10-12 years |
| 2006 | E. Prissette | Rhone | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | EIEIO Stermer | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | EIEIO Wind Hill | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Efeste Ceidleigh | Syrah | | 30.00 | 0 | 93 |
| Smooth, round and generous, this positively glows with gorgeous plum, blackberry and floral spice aromas and flavors, echoing on the long, expressive finish. This just doesn't quit. |
| 2001 | Elderton Command | Shiraz | | 75.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Silky tannins and rich flavors add up to an arresting wine, a seductive Shiraz that oozes with rich cherry, plum, exotic spice and meat flavors that linger against grace notes of chocolate and espresso. Delicious stuff and it's built to last. |
| 2006 | Erath Battle Creek | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Silky, edging toward delicacy but brimming with raspberry, cherry and berry leaf aromas and flavors against toasty oak, remaining focused through the long, coffee-accented finish. |
| 2005 | Erath Estate | Pinot Noir | | 30.00 | 1 | 90 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Erath Estate | Pinot Noir | | 32.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Polished, focused and expressive, with red berry, cherry and floral aromas and flavors that pick up hints of roasted beets and a meaty note as the finish persists against refined tannins.Beautifully made and distinctive. |
| 2005 | Erath Niederberger | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 0 | 86 |
| Light and silky, with modest strawberry and leafy aromas and flavors, lingering gently. |
| 2004 | Erath Prince Hill | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Lovely, open-textured and velvety. Offers red raspberry, cranberry and red cherry fruit on a beautifully focused, narrow beam that persists into the long, savory finish. |
| 2009 | Eugenio Bocchino Roccabella Langhe | Nebbiolo | | 20.00 | 2 | 90 |
| dusty red. a- violet, tar, somewhat animalistic. very perfumey and aromatic. f- deep, with a long finish and medium plus mouthfeel. still very tannic with bright acicidty. nuanced, subtle, earthy. good at this point, could use some time- in year or more i suspect this rating will go up to at least a 92. keep it for now. |
| 2009 | Fausse Piste decouvertes | Viognier | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Fausse Piste l'otolan | Roussanne | | 35.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Ferraton Pere & Fils Crozes-Hermitage | Rhone | | 25.00 | 1 | 91 |
| A juicy, structured style, with iron, lavender and sanguine notes framing the black cherry and currant fruit. An enticing herb note marks the finish. Slightly taut for now, but should flesh out nicely with some cellar time. |
| 2000 | Ferraton Pere & Fils Ermitage "La Meal" | Syrah | | 70.00 | 1 | NYR |
| 2005 | Fidelitas Boushey | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Merlot comprises 53% of the blend, Cabernet Sauvignon 40%, and Cab Franc fills in the final 7%. Well built and satisfyingly complete, this tribute to grower Dick Boushey uses fruit from his oldest (25-year) vines. Scents of toast, mint and moist earth introduce varied fruit flavors of boysenberry, purple grape, cherry and plum. It’s a big, bold wine that segues neatly into a finish of chocolate and butterscotch. |
| 2005 | Fidelitas Champoux | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Rich and ripe, delivering a plush mouthful of blackberry, currant and plum fruit. Hints at smoke and espresso as the finish narrows to a solid beam. The tannins are polished, and acidity balances the lushness, so the wine comes off as refined |
| 2008 | Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley | Chardonnay | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Frederic Magnien Fixin | Red Burgundy | | 35.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2007 | Frederic Magnien Fixin - Crais De Chene | Red Burgundy | | 33.00 | 2 | NYR |
| A subtle touch of wood sets off earthy and reasonably complex aromas of red and blue fruit as well as lovely violet nuances that merge into rich, round and supple flavors that possess an attractive textured on the delicious, long and nicely sappy finish that carries less rusticity than one might otherwise expect |
| 2006 | Frederic Magnien Gevre-Chambertain - Jeunes-Rois | Red Burgundy | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Frederic Magnien Marsannay - Couer D'Argiles | Red Burgundy | | 40.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2005 | Frederic Magnien Ronsoy | Red Burgundy | | 35.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | G.D. Vajra Barbera D'Alba | Barbera | | 25.00 | 0 | 92 |
| The 2008 Barbera d’Alba is one of the very finest Barberas I have tasted from this vintage. Surprisingly concentrated and rich, this sensual |
| 2005 | G.D. Vajra Barolo Albe | Barolo | | 55.00 | 1 | 87 |
| Raisiny, with a high note that verges on being volatile. Full-bodied, with soft, round tannins and a long, rich finish. Slightly one-dimensional, but interesting. |
| 2009 | G.D. Vajra Langhe | Nebbiolo | | 23.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Enticing aromas of raspberry and flowers introduce this supple, elegant red. As the raspberry and cherry flavors unfold, moderate tannins bolster the finish. |
| 2009 | Georges Duboeuf Morgan Jean Descombes | Gamay | | 17.50 | 2 | 93 |
| Light tannins and a smoky mineral note frame this lush red, which displays layers of black cherry, raspberry ganache and tea rose flavors. There's a spicy thread running through the wine, leading to a fresh, firm finish. |
| 2009 | Giacomo Conterno D'Alba Cascina Francia | Barbera | | 50.00 | 3 | 93 |
| Bright, dark ruby-red. Black cherry aroma lifted by pungent minerality. Utterly silky and sweet, with terrific mineral lift and an impression of lower alcohol giving this suave, mouthcoating wine a light touch. Still quite youthfully closed but wonderfully pure and long, at once creamy and energetic. An exceptional barbera. |
| 2006 | Goose Ridge Vireo | Red Blend | | 25.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Firm, rich and distinctive for the black olive and roasted meat overtones that swirl around the red berry and cherry flavors, persisting impressively on the long, expressive finish. Stylish and focused, this has miles to go. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot. |
| 2009 | Gramercy Walla Walla | Syrah | | 45.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Supple, slinky and opulent, with black olive, oatmeal and mace overtones to the tightly knit blackberry and plum fruit, getting spicier as the finish persists. |
| 1994 | Hafner | Cabernet | | | 1 | |
| 2005 | Hartford Court Land's Edge | Pinot Noir | | 50.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Most of the grapes came from the Annapolis Vineyard, with some from Seascape. While the vintage was cool, it gave incredibly long hangtime. Dry, crisp and delicate, the wine has a silky voluptuousness that makes it irresistible, with pie-filling cherry and black raspberry flavors finished with Asian spice. New French oak adds toast and vanilla sweetness. |
| 2009 | Henry Fessy Fleurie | Gamay | | 17.50 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Henry Fessy Moulin-A-Vent | Gamay | | 17.50 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2010 | Hestia Cellars | Chenin Blanc | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | J. Lohr Fog's Reach | Pinot Noir | | 25.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | J.K. Carriere | Chardonnay | | 40.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | J.K. Carriere Antoinette | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | J.K. Carriere Gemini | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2005 | J.K. Carriere Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 90.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | J.K. Carriere Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 65.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | J.K. Carriere Willamette Valley | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Light and floral, with iris notes around a core of fresh plum and white pepper flavors. Lingers easily. |
| 2008 | JK Carriere Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 2 | 92 |
| No notes |
| NV | Jalliance Cremant Brut Rose | Sparkling Wine | | 17.50 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Jean-Marc Millot Aux Faulques | Red Burgundy | | 30.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Jean-Marc Millot Clos de Vougeot - Grand Cru | Red Burgundy | | 135.00 | 3 | 92 |
| From less than 1 acre in the Grand Maupertuis section of the Clos … Mild reduction cannot completely hide the earthy and spicy dark berry fruit aromas that possess plenty of underbrush, forest floor and sauvage nuances that continue onto the rich, full and sweet flavors that are more elegant and refined than the typical example of Clos de Vougeot, all wrapped in a slightly austere finale of excellent length. This is a Clos de Vougeot of finesse, which is relatively rare. ( |
| 2006 | Jean-Marc Millot Echezeaux - Grand cru | Red Burgundy | | 125.00 | 2 | 92 |
| 2.59 acres total from parcels in Echézeaux du Dessus, Poulaillères and Clos St. Denis measuring 1.17, .49 and .39 acres, respectively). This too is very fresh and bright with a darker fruit profile nuanced with an ample array of spice elements including soy, clove and anise that introduce racy, pure and punchy middle weight flavors that possess excellent depth and again, impressive flavor impact on the harmonious and wonderfully long finish. |
| 2006 | Jean-Marc Millot Grands Echezeaux - Grand Cru | Red Burgundy | | 150.00 | 1 | 93 |
| From a tiny .49 acre parcel - 5 cases imported. Not surprisingly, this is the most complete wine in the group with its classy and ripe spicy blue fruit and cassis-infused nose that slides seamlessly into rich, pure and nicely concentrated flavors that possess terrific depth and length. It’s interesting because while this has the best raw materials, it also just has that extra element of breed which sets it apart from the other wines more than the simple differential in qualitative terms. |
| 2006 | Jean-Marc Millot Villages "Aux Faulques" | Red Burgundy | | 30.00 | 2 | 88 |
| A 4.4 acre Monopole in Comblanchien. A very fresh nose of earthy dark berry fruit that offers up distinct animale and underbrush notes and leads to sweet, delicious and firm but not aggressive flavors underpinned by slightly rustic tannins and good length. Solid quality. |
| 2006 | John Duval Wines Entity | Shiraz | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Juicy and lively, brimming with blackberry, currant and subtle spices, remaining fresh and brilliant through the long, persuasive finish. The tannins are crisp but well-integrated. |
| 1995 | Joseph Perrier Cuvee Josephine | Champagne | | 150.00 | 1 | NYR |
| 1998 | Joseph Perrier Cuvee Josephine | Champagne | | 175.00 | 1 | 92 |
| A gentle, refined mousse sets the stage for bread dough, peach and citrus notes. It's round, yet bright and balanced, yielding to a chalklike feel on the finish. Really unfolds gracefully. |
| 2007 | Juan Gil | Monastrell | | 16.00 | 0 | 87 |
| Blackberry, fig, balsamic vinegar and cola flavors mingle in this assertive modern red. This has chewy tannins under a plush texture and a toasty, spicy finish |
| 2006 | K Vintners The Boy | Grenache/Syrah | | 45.00 | 1 | NYR |
| Bright and juicy, a lively, expansive mouthful of jazzy blackberry, cherry and black olive flavors that persist against refined tannins through the finish. |
| 2004 | Kongsgaard | Chardonnay | | 110.00 | 1 | 95 |
| The 2004 Chardonnay shows that wonderful liquified rockiness, as if someone took a couple of boulders, threw them in a Cuisinart, and was able to extract some liquid, interwoven with tangerine oil, nectarine, quince, pear, and popcorn and honey. Quite layered, full-bodied, but with terrific acidity and vibrancy, this is a sensational Chardonnay that is set for 8-10 years of life. |
| NV | Krug Grand Cuvee | Champagne | | 150.00 | 1 | 95 |
| A powerful, well-toned Champagne, featuring coconut, toast, grapefruit and coffee aromas and flavors. There are plenty of bass notes, punctuated by crisp acidity, and it all comes together on the fine texture, with aftertaste of roasted hazelnut and coffee. |
| 2005 | Kudos | Pinot Noir | | | 1 | |
| NV | La Garza | Cabernet | | 10.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2004 | La Serena | Sangiovese | | 60.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Blackberries, roses and blueberries on the nose follow through to a full body, with silky tannins and a sweet fruit aftertaste. Lots of sweet raspberries and strawberries on the finish. A delicious red already. |
| 2006 | Laura Volkman Vineyards Rachel | Pinot Noir | | 38.00 | 0 | 91 |
| Smooth and rich, with a sense of delicacy to the ripe blackberry and cherry flavors, weaving spicy, toasty notes through the finish as it sails on and on. |
| 2005 | Le Cadeau Cote Est | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 2 | 90 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Le Cadeau Cote Est | Pinot Noir | | 47.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Lithe and appealing for its pretty raspberry, strawberry and floral aromas and flavors, lightly wrapped in crisp tannins that carry the finish and lift the flavors |
| 2005 | Le Cadeau Rocheux | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 1 | 90 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Le Cadeau Rocheux | Pinot Noir | | 47.00 | 1 | 91 |
| This wine is gorgeous from the moment the cork is pulled. Sweet fruit—berries, currants and jam—is perfectly matched to more subtle scents of sassafras and tobacco. Nicely woven together, this youthful wine coasts along on a magic carpet of seamless flavors, gently sliding into a lightly toasty finish with a lick of bacon fat. Though fairly soft, it seems like a good candidate to improve for 5 or 6 years. |
| 2004 | Le Vieux Donjon - Magnum | Rhone | | 100.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Tight on the nose, but with a great beam of red and black fruits, as well as hoisin sauce, olive, cocoa, tar and raspberry ganache. Long, lush finish pumps out darker and darker fruit. Has the racy profile of the vintage, but its range sets it apart. |
| 2006 | Lenne Estate | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 2 | 91 |
| A rich, lush, well-structured and seamless Pinot Noir, the 2006 Lenné brings brambly cherry fruit with streaks of herb, leaf and spice. The alcohol, pushing close to 15%, shows up as a slight burn in the finish, but the wine brings in interesting notes of mint and chervil in the aromatic finish. |
| 2007 | Lenne Estate | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 1 | 86 |
| Light and silky, with strawberry and raspberry flavors playing against crisp tannins. |
| 2004 | Long Shadows Chester Kidder - Magnum | Red Blend | | 125.00 | 1 | 90 |
| The fruit is forward, a mélange of tart and spicy berry and currant flavors, and there is enough concentration to warrant additional cellaring. The influence of new oak is unobtrusive, though it is still a vital part of the mix. Overall, a nice step forward for this Long Shadows wine. 58% Cab, 29% Syrah, 10% Cab Franc, 3% Petit Verdot. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Feather | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 0 | 93 |
| The 2005 Feather is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee made by Randy Dunn of Napa Valley fame. The wine was sourced from three vineyards and aged for 22 months in 90% new French oak. The nose gives up aromas of toasty oak, scorched earth, Asian spices, black currant, and blackberry. Firm and structured on the palate, there are layers of fruit and enough tannin to evolve for another 4-6 years. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Feather - Magnum | Cabernet | | 125.00 | 1 | 93 |
| The 2005 Feather is a 100% Cabernet Sauvignon cuvee made by Randy Dunn of Napa Valley fame. The wine was sourced from three vineyards and aged for 22 months in 90% new French oak. The nose gives up aromas of toasty oak, scorched earth, Asian spices, black currant, and blackberry. Firm and structured on the palate, there are layers of fruit and enough tannin to evolve for another 4-6 years. |
| 2003 | Long Shadows Pedestal | Merlot | | 60.00 | 1 | 95 |
| A standout even in Long Shadows' superstar lineup, this dark, dense, concentrated wine opens with a silky, smoky, voluptuous mouthfeel. Pedestal is beautifully ripened, nuanced and complete. Lovely notes of bacon and smoked meats permeate the thick, juicy fruit. |
| 2004 | Long Shadows Pedestal | Merlot | | 50.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Dense and focused, yet balances deftly enough to let the currant, cherry and black raspberry fruit pierce through a veil of crisp tannins. Has power without excessive weight. The finish lingers extraordinarily well. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Pedestal | Merlot | | 50.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Consistent with previous releases, this Michel Rolland effort is a soft, silky, smoky wine that introduces itself with round cherry fruit and then charges ahead with layers of licorice, citrus, coffee and rock that enliven the finish. There is plenty of tart raspberry fruit to open, and the balancing acids to give the wine a tight core. It’s a very polished and appealing balance of forward, approachable fruit married to more elegant, ageworthy tannins and acids. |
| 2006 | Long Shadows Pedestal | Merlot | | 55.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Dark and spicy, with a tarry edge to the blackberry and currant fruit, emerging on the never-ending finish with richness, polish and elements of spice, pepper and an extra whoosh of cherry. It all keeps sailing effortlessly. |
| 2007 | Long Shadows Pedestal | Merlot | | 55.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Aromatically pure and focused, brimming with currant, blackberry and currant fruit shaded with white pepper and allspice. Hints at wet earth as the finish persists. It seems like this can go on for a long time in the cellar |
| 2004 | Long Shadows Pedestal - Magnum | Merlot | | 125.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Dense and focused, yet balances deftly enough to let the currant, cherry and black raspberry fruit pierce through a veil of crisp tannins. Has power without excessive weight. The finish lingers extraordinarily well. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Pedestal - Magnum | Merlot | | 125.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Big, rich and distinctive for its blackberry and cream flavors, wrapped in slightly gritty tannins, with mocha notes woven through the long, generous finish. The gritty texture is surprising for this usually polished red. Just needs time. |
| 2006 | Long Shadows Pedestal - Magnum | Merlot | | 125.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Dark and spicy, with a tarry edge to the blackberry and currant fruit, emerging on the never-ending finish with richness, polish and elements of spice, pepper and an extra whoosh of cherry. It all keeps sailing effortlessly. |
| 2004 | Long Shadows Pirouette | Red Blend | | 55.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Ripe, plush and generous with its dark-hued cherry and currant fruit, shaded with licorice and roasted pepper as the finish rolls on and on. A hefty wine that finds a balance as the aftertaste lingers. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Syrah. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Pirouette - Magnum | Red Blend | | 125.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Firm in texture, with grippy tannins around a glowing core of plum and blueberry fruit, shaded with earthy, cedary notes as the finish persists. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap | Riesling | | 20.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Poet’s Leap was the first wine to be released under the Long Shadows portfolio, and this 2005 is clearly its best yet. Old-vine Riesling from Dionysus and Weinbau form the core of the wine, which is immaculate, rich and generous. The fruits sound like a county fair in summer—melon, stone fruits, citrus, honey—and the mix of residual sugar (about 1.6%) and racy acids is thrillingly on target. |
| 2006 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap | Riesling | | 20.00 | 0 | 94 |
| Ripe pear, melon, and white peach mingle with a streak of honey. Old Yakima Valley vines contribute concentration, adding herb and mineral to the fruit. The residual sugar is about 1.4%, keeping the alcohol just under 13%, with acids that keep flavors buoyant and precise. |
| 2007 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap | Riesling | | 20.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Emphasizes refinement over effusiveness, presenting its pear and green apple with hints of warm slate and spicy floral notes edging in gently. Finishes just off-dry. |
| 2008 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap | Riesling | | 20.00 | 1 | 92 |
| “Riesling floweriness and Fuji apple prettiness are on display from the very first sniff. Acidity keeps the wine somewhat sleek, crisp and lively on the palate, and while it could work as a stand-alone aperitif drink for those who like the minerally side of the grape, it has the depth and inner structure to be happy alongside dishes like sautéed sea scallops wrapped in a piece of smoky bacon.” |
| 2009 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap | Riesling | | 20.00 | 1 | 95 |
| No notes |
| 2010 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap | Riesling | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap - Carmina Burana | Riesling | | 25.00 | 2 | NYR |
| Carmina Burana is a dry Riesling (minimal residual sugar), fermented half in oak and half in stainless steel tanks, then aged for five months in a traditional German oval cask. The introduction of oak imparts a richness that balances beautifully with the wine's bright and lively acidity. Fragrant aromas of fresh citrus and green apple are accented by honeysuckle and peach flavors with an added zest of minerality. |
| 2008 | Long Shadows Poet's Leap - Ice Wine | Riesling | | 85.00 | 2 | 95 |
| Deep gold, the color of honey, picked at 53° brix, this is unbelievably dense and concentrated. Yet with the acidity in place, this wine has balance, support, and depth. It’s not a fat, sugary blob. This drinks like a Canadian icewine. Honey, tropical fruits, candied orange, butterscotch, butter and toasted nuts—it just keeps on going. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Saggi | Red Blend | | 45.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Lithe and focused, with pretty raspberry and strawberry flavors shaded with hints of rose petal and white pepper. Finishes with persistence and some delicacy. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Saggi - Magnum | Red Blend | | 125.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Lithe and focused, with pretty raspberry and strawberry flavors shaded with hints of rose petal and white pepper. Finishes with persistence and some delicacy. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. |
| 2005 | Long Shadows Sequel - Magnum | Syrah | | 110.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Firm in texture, with a crisp feel to the tannins under the ripe, narrowly focused blackberry, plum and black olive flavors. The finish keeps singing, however, as the pretty flavors persist. |
| 2009 | Louis Latour Beaune Vignes Franches | Red Burgundy | | 60.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Louis Latour Marsanny | Red Burgundy | | 20.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Lean and solidly built, despite its ripe cherry notes up front. Tannins and acidity dominate now, but this has a stony character and length, with loads of mineral on the aftertaste. |
| 2009 | Louis Latour Pommard | Red Burgundy | | 50.00 | 2 | 2 |
| No notes |
| 2002 | Louis Roederer Blanc De Blancs | Champagne | | 70.00 | 1 | 95 |
| The purity of this wine is impressive. It has a straight line of mineral, flint and grapefruit running through it. Around this, there are layers of fresh apples, lime zest and a tight, taut structure. The one downside to what is a fine wine is that it, like many Roederer vintages, is too young. Give it 4–5 years. |
| 2003 | Louis Roederer Blanc De Blancs | Champagne | | 70.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Very fresh, exuding aromas of graphite and pencil shavings followed by ripe peach, grapefruit and mineral notes. Vinous in character, with a vibrant structure and a long finish. A terrific 2003. |
| 2004 | Louis Roederer Blanc de Blancs | Champagne | | 70.00 | 1 | 90 |
| A firm Champagne, displaying a floral quality to the biscuit, pear and light spice notes. This shows fine balance and good drive to the acidity, straight through to the delicate finish. |
| NV | Louis Roederer Brut | Champagne | | 43.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Light and lively, featuring apple, toast, ginger and light vanilla flavors. Balanced and on the dry side, with a creamy texture and a lingering butter pastry aftertaste. |
| 2002 | Louis Roederer Cristal | Champagne | | 290.00 | 2 | 98 |
| This is an exceptional wine, as is the vintage. The fruits—grapefruit, crisp red apple—balance with a fine yeasty character. There is a great depth of flavor, the fruits going in a pure line of freshness. The one problem is that it is much too young, the result of the demand from the market for the next vintage. Age this wine for at least four years. |
| 2009 | Maison Bleue Petite Joie | Marsanne | | 32.00 | 2 | 94 |
| 2009 | Maison Bleue Soleil | Roussanne | | 27.00 | 0 | 90 |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Marchesi Di Gresy Barbaresco Martinenga | Barbaresco | | 55.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Delicate and balanced, with subtle strawberry and berry character on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, with bright acidity, fine tannins and a fresh finish. |
| 2007 | Marchesi di Frescobaldi Chianti Rufina Nipozzano Riserva | Sangiovese | | 22.00 | 2 | 93 |
| From Frescobaldi’s gorgeous Nipozzano estate, this Riserva Sangiovese (with small percentages of Malvasia Nera, Cabernet and Merlot for extra density and intensity) opens with impressive generosity and personality. It offers lingering flavors of cherry, chocolate and dark spice. |
| 2005 | Marimar Estate Crisitna | Pinot Noir | | 52.00 | 0 | 95 |
| Gorgeous and delicious, this low-production bottling is a best-of-barrels selection named for Marimar Torres’s daughter. It’s an exceptional wine that’s compelling not only for its vivacity but also its complexity. Offers wave after wave of cherries, pomegranates, rhubarb pie, roasted coconut, red licorice, tangerine zest, sweet vanilla oak and Asian spices through a long finish |
| 2008 | Marimar Estate Don Miguel | Chardonnay | | 35.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Mark Ryan Dead Horse | Red Blend | | 45.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Round and immensely generous. A lovely beam of sweet, spicy blackberry and plum fruit shines through a layer of velvety tannins, persisting impressively on the long, focused finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot. |
| 2001 | Marquis Philips Integrity | Shiraz | | 100.00 | 1 | 99 |
| Virtually perfect! A magnificent nose of white flowers, blackberries, cassis, and a hint of espresso. Dense, with thrilling levels of concentration, a multi-tiered mid-palate, and sweet tannin in the 50-second finish, this wine was made from relatively young vines, and the alcohol is a lofty 16.2%, but that's irrelevant when tasting a wine that is this perfectly balanced and compelling. |
| 2005 | Marquis Philips The Grail of Lisa | Shiraz | | 55.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| 2007 | Mas De Brunes Cuvee des Cigales | Red Blend | | 15.00 | 1 | NYR |
| 2007 | Mas de Gourgonnier Les Baux de Provence | Rhone | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Matrot Meursault-Blagny | White Burgundy | | 78.00 | 1 | 92 |
| The smoke- and lime blossom-tinged aromas are alluring, but only the teaser to the lime, mineral and peach flavors that unfold on the palate. Racy and tight, this builds nicely to a very long aftertaste. |
| 2007 | Matrot Puligny-Montrachet Les Chalumeaux | White Burgundy | | 85.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Complex, rather delicate nose melds peach, red grapefruit, clove, menthol, almond and white flowers. Tighter and more penetrating than the Charmes, in a distinctly steely, minerally style. Youthfully austere and classically dry on the back end, hiding more than it's showing today but long on the aftertaste. A classically crisp example of this high-altitude vineyard. |
| 2003 | Matthews - 3 Litre | Red Blend | | 300.00 | 1 | 93 |
| This has rich tannins, dense fruit and overall deep flavors. This is a dark wine, just this side of brooding, with ripe blueberry and cherry fruit, softly chalky tannins, whiffs of smoke and splashes of pepper. The dark fruit flavors are bold and seamless, melded with smoke and chocolate, dotted with ground espresso, and finished with a nice lift. This probably needs another five years to really show all of its complexity. |
| 2009 | Merry Edwards | Sauvignon Blanc | | 30.00 | 1 | 93 |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Michel Magnien Gevrey-Chambertain Cazetiers - Magnum | Red Burgundy | | 250.00 | 1 | 91 |
| A more complex and serious nose of red and blue berry fruits, game, smoke, spice, underbrush and a hint of roast espresso highlights the rich, full and notably powerful big-bodied flavors that are sappy and mouth coating with a chewy but not aggressive finish. This is actually quite racy for this appellation with real verve and underlying tension. Recommended. |
| 2009 | Michel Rey Julienas | Gamay | | 30.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Michel Sarrazin "Champs Lalot" | Red Burgundy | | 25.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2005 | Michel Sarrazin "Sous La Roche" | Red Burgundy | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2002 | Moet & Chandon Dom Perignon | Champagne | | 150.00 | 1 | 95 |
| The color is brilliant, golden yellow, the effervescence fine and persistent mousse and a delicate creamy ... |
| 2007 | Mount Eden Estate | Cabernet | | 45.00 | 0 | 98 |
| Open every stop on your Cabernet church organ: Pure cassis. Mountain freshness. Baking spice. The pencil lead of Graves in that less-than-overripe varietal character. This is unadulterated Cabernet pleasure, three words that have never come together in my mind before. Grown at an elevation of 1,800 feet, 14 miles from the coast, this vineyard traces its heritage back to Chateau Margaux, where Emmet Rixford selected cuttings for La Questa in the 1890s. Martin Ray propagated cuttings from these vines to plant Mount Eden in the 1940s, replanted in the 1980s with a selection from Ray's vines. Between the cool site, the exceptional vintage and the pedigree of the vines, this is a true California classic." |
| 2008 | Mount Eden Estate | Chardonnay | | 55.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Chardonnays from this producer. Very rich and intense, deeply concentrated and perfumed, delivering detailed flavors of white peach, honeysuckle, fig and citrus. Full-bodied, sleek and leesy, with a long lingering finish. |
| 2004 | Mount Eden Santa Cruz Mountains | Chardonnay | | 45.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Ultraripe, rich and opulent, yet maintains a sense of balance and proportion, with layers of honey, fig, melon and a hint of marshmallow, ending with a full-bodied aftertaste and a hint of minerality. |
| 2005 | Mount Eden Santa Cruz Mountains | Chardonnay | | 48.00 | 1 | 96 |
| A massive Chardonnay, with tremendous grilled pineapple, peach pie, buttered cinnamon toast, butterscotch, caramel and vanilla flavors, with a firm, earthy minerality. Feels fat and glyceriney in the mouth, providing a decadent palate experience, but acidity contributes to the firm, elegant structure. |
| 2006 | Mount Eden Santa Cruz Mountains | Chardonnay | | 50.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Simply delicious, a rich, buttery style, with ripe, vivid and delicate peach, pear and honeydew melon fruit that's complex, concentrated and full-bodied, offering excellent length and depth. Creamy oak adds a touch of smoke and vanilla. The texture is silky. |
| 2007 | Natalie's Estate | Merlot | | 15.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Natalie's Estate Elephant Mountain | Cabernet | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Natalie's Estate Elephant Mountain | Cabernet | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2004 | Northstar Columbia Valley | Merlot | | 40.00 | 0 | 91 |
| Ripe and generous, with a bit of a tannic grip around the plush currant and cherry flavors, lingering against hints of white pepper and black olive. |
| 2006 | Novy Judge Family | Syrah | | 29.00 | 0 | 87 |
| A good, rich Syrah that shows its cool-climate origins in the peppery notes, dryness and finely ground tannins. It’s a big, powerful wine, long and deep in currant, mushu plum sauce and grilled meat flavors, and is best enjoyed in its youth with like-minded foods. |
| 2007 | Novy Judge Family Vineyard | Grenache | | 19.00 | 0 | 87 |
| Dramatically rich and ripe, with a fine structure of tannins, although the richness is at its best now, so drink up. Shows delicious flavors of cherries, chocolate, red licorice and peppery spices. |
| 2007 | Novy Page-Nord | Syrah | | 29.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Fans of the Northern Rhône might argue that this Syrah is too fruity, but there’s no questioning its boldly Californian beauty. It thrills the palate with explosive blackberries, blueberries, cherries, currants, cocoa and spices, yet is balanced in refined tannins, and completely dry on the finish. In other words, superb |
| 2005 | Novy Santa Lucia Highlands | Syrah | | 30.00 | 0 | 95 |
| Dark and racy, with a Northern Rhône-style aroma of black pepper, cedar and black currants, but there’s nothing Rhône-like about the flavor. It’s distinctly California, with soft, sweetly ripe tannins bursting with blackberry jam, black currants, anise, vanilla and sweet oak flavors. The wine is fully dry. Absolutely first-rate Syrah. |
| 2006 | Novy Sapphire Hill | Syrah | | 29.00 | 0 | 88 |
| Ripely fruity and soft, showing upfront flavors of blackberries, cherries, plums, tobacco, cola, mocha and pepper. Tastes a little sweet in charred wood extract. |
| 2009 | O.S Winery Champoux Vineyard | Riesling | | 18.00 | 2 | 93 |
| A unique balance—9.8% alcohol and 2% residual sugar—with the subtle flavors of old vines a bonus. A gorgeous wine, tasted with escalar (white tuna) served as sushi. The buttery fish and the light, elegant Riesling are a stunning match. Neither overtakes the other. |
| 2005 | O.S Winery M Klipsun Vineyard | Red Blend | | 30.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Firm in texture, with dark berry and licorice flavors competing for attention as the flavors persist, gaining in intensity as the finish lingers. Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. |
| NV | Obata Shuzo Junmai Ginjo Genshu "Four Diamonds" | Sake | | 25.00 | 2 | NYR |
| 2005 | Oratoire Saint-Martin Haut Coustias Cairanne | Rhone | | 40.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Tight, hard, long-lived. |
| 2006 | Oratoire Saint-Martin Haut Coustias Cairanne | Rhone | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Rich, creamy, spicy. |
| 2007 | Oratoire Saint-Martin Haut Coustias Carianne | Rhone | | 40.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Plummy, chocolaty, supple. |
| 2010 | Owen Roe | Pinot Gris | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Owen Roe Abbot's Table | Red Blend | | 25.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Anna's Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 2 | 88 |
| Crisp in texture, with firm tannins and a raucous array of red cherry, pepper and licorice flavors, lingering on the lively finish. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Chapel Block | Syrah | | 45.00 | 2 | 97 |
| Warm, inviting and impressive for the purity of its plum, blackberry and currant fruit, sailing easily over a bed of fine tannins, finishing silky and seamless, with hints of espresso and violet. This has extraordinary balance and finesse without sacrificing an ounce of power |
| 2010 | Owen Roe Chapel Block | Syrah | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2001 | Owen Roe DuBrul | Cabernet | | 55.00 | 1 | 88 |
| Supple and generous, with a gamy, slightly leathery edge to the cherry and spice flavors, finishing with a sweet layer of spicy oak. |
| 2002 | Owen Roe DuBrul | Cabernet | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Firm in texture, with a polished core of cherry, raspberry, dark chocolate and dusky spice flavors, finishing with a floral note, all lingering well. Should only improve in the bottle. |
| 2003 | Owen Roe DuBrul | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Owen Roe's most sought after wine and one of Oregon's most highly coveted bottlings. About 100 cases made from a small vineyard high up on the north side of the Yakima Valley where extreme heat and cold stress the grapes and produce small amounts of intensely concentrated fruit. |
| 2004 | Owen Roe DuBrul | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Deep red. Sweet raspberry, tobacco, menthol and musky espresso on the nose, along with sexy smoky oak tones. Lush and silky in the mouth, with a penetrating sweetness to the red berry and spice flavors. Very round, broad wine that expands impressively on the back half and lingers long on the lush, sweet aftertaste. The sexy oak component can't hide the wine's flamboyant cabernet character. |
| 2006 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Cabernet | | 72.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Rich and focused, delivering a juicy mouthful of blackberry, currant, sage and crème brûlée flavors that linger effortlessly on the long finish, balanced nicely with vivid acidity. |
| 2007 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Riesling | | 20.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Cabernet | | 70.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Chardonnay | | 48.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Bright and jazzy up front, beaming with pear, grapefruit, apple and floral aromas, turning silky and inviting in the mouth before letting vibrant acidity lift the finish. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Cabernet | | 72.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Focused, sturdy and distinctive for its floral overtones and a hint of green herbs around a vibrant core of red berries and cherry. Has intensity and impeccable balance. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Riesling | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Cabernet | | 72.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Owen Roe Dubrul | Chardonnay | | 48.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Durant Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Polished and silky, this is generous with its peppermint-tinged cherry, pear and coffee flavors, lingering beautifully on the refined finish. |
| 2007 | Owen Roe Ex Umbris | Syrah | | 25.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Smooth and velvety, offering a plush mouthful of spicy cherry and red berry flavors, playing against plush tannins and hints of milk chocolate on the long, vivid finish. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Kalita Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Red Willow 1973 Block | Cabernet | | 72.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Supple and inviting, with ripe blackberry and blueberry fruit coursing through a layer of cedar and sassafras, lingering enticingly against refined tannins. A graceful wine that should reward cellaring. |
| 2007 | Owen Roe Rosa Mystica | Cabernet Franc | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Aromatic with floral and savory herb notes, then expands in the mouth with supple blackberry and cherry fruit, finishing expressively with rich texture. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Rosa Mystica | Cabernet Franc | | 42.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Good medium red. Musky, slightly raw aromas of red berries and pepper. Sweet on entry, then peppery and uncompromising in the middle, with a much more restrained sweetness to its red berry, earth and tobacco flavors. Moderately dense but not at all thick-and quite light on its feet. Finishes with a serious dusting of fine tannins. I like this style. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Sinister Hand | Red Blend | | 22.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Slide Mountain | Cabernet Franc | | 70.00 | 2 | NYR |
| The Slide Mountain Cabernet Franc has violet perfume to match green olive flavors with lovely berry fruit and sweet tobacco notes on the finish |
| 2006 | Owen Roe The Kilmore | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | Owen Roe The Kilmore | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Ripe, round, generous and spicy, brimming with plum, blackberry and currant fruit surrounded by hints of white pepper and clove. The tannins have a light bite, but the finish just keeps preening. |
| 2008 | Owen Roe The Kilmore - Magnum | Pinot Noir | | 100.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Ripe, round, generous and spicy, brimming with plum, blackberry and currant fruit surrounded by hints of white pepper and clove. The tannins have a light bite, but the finish just keeps preening. |
| 2007 | Owen Roe The Parting Glass | Dessert Wine | | 25.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Owen Roe Yakima Red | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Owen Roe Yakima Red | Red Blend | | 42.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Owen Roe Yakima Valley | Red Blend | | 42.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| NV | P. Lancelot-Royer Cuvee Des Chavaliers | Champagne | | 50.00 | 1 | |
| No notes |
| 2004 | Pahlmeyer Napa Valley | Merlot | | 90.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Shows seductive aromas of rich currant, with mocha and espresso bean oak. Deep, complex, intense and concentrated. The long, full, persistent finish has firm, ripe tannins and lays the fruit and oak out in spades. |
| 2006 | Palacios As Sortes | Godello | | 35.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2003 | Paolo Scavino Bricco Ambrogio | Barolo | | 85.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Offers bright aromas of raspberry and mineral. Full-bodied, with soft tannins and a long, caressing finish. Balanced and very pretty. This is the second vintage of a new vineyard from Scavino. |
| 2007 | Paul Autard | Rhone | | 43.00 | 2 | 93 |
| This delivers a very large core of crushed currant, plum and blackberry fruit, all held in check by hints of maduro tobacco, bittersweet ganache, black tea and graphite. The long finish has ample grip, lending further length and definition to the impressive range of fruit. |
| 2005 | Paul Autard Cuvee La Cote Ronde | Rhone | | 60.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Delivers a healthy dose of cocoa and toast before more typical black cherry, currant, tobacco and mineral notes fill out the back end. There's also lots of spice, with a muscular, chewy finish that needs some time to settle in. |
| 2007 | Paul Autard Juline | Rhone | | 100.00 | 2 | 95 |
| Shows lots of exotic braised fig, black tea, roasted mesquite, incense and bittersweet cocoa notes, with a core of black cherry and raspberry fruit in reserve. The long, flashy finish lets pastis and Black Forest cake notes emerge. This has some toast to absorb, but it's all there |
| 2004 | Peju Province Estate | Cabernet | | 40.00 | 0 | 89 |
| Very ripe, with candied apple cinnamon and cherry aromas and flavors that evolve into an earthier presence on the palate, with dried currant, spice and leather notes. |
| 2008 | Penner Ash | Viognier | | 25.00 | 0 | 91 |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | Penner-Ash Dussin Estate | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 2 | 92 |
| This is broad and ripe, featuring dark berry and smoky, minerally flavors that compete for attention on a light, airy frame. Firm tannins mark this for the cellar, but the generosity of flavor should carry it well. |
| 2008 | Penner-Ash Elevee Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 55.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Light on its feet, focused in flavor, with floral and mineral overtones to the dark berry flavors, finishing with a distinctive pebbly character and expressive length. |
| 2008 | Penner-Ash Pas De Nom | Pinot Noir | | 100.00 | 2 | 95 |
| Light on its feet, with gorgeous currant, plum and wet stone aromas and flavors that remain expressive and intense without any apparent weight. The tannins are beautifully integrated, while the finish goes on and on. |
| 2008 | Penner-Ash Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 55.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Ripe, round and complex, delivering black cherry, currant and plum flavors, layered with flashes of wet granite, slate and white pepper that add extra sparkle on the intense—but not dense—structure. Seductive. |
| 2006 | Penner-Ash Willamette Valley | Pinot Noir | | 48.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Round and velvety, with focused plum, blackberry and smoke flavors that shoot right through a layer of fine tannins and persist into the finish, bringing a little heat as they linger. |
| NV | Perrier Jouet Brut - Magnum | Champagne | | 75.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Aromas and flavors of toast and mineral frame the citrus core in this elegant, focused bubbly. This is firm and lively, with a lingering finish. |
| 2000 | Perrier Jouet Fluer De Champagne - Gift w/Glasses | Champagne | | 140.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Subtle and creamy, with peach and apple flavors shaded by grapefruit and yeast accents. This is compact, despite being ripe, and finishes firm and crisp. |
| 2002 | Perrier-Jouet Fleur De Champagne | Champagne | | 115.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Hints of burnt sugar and toffee accent this bright Champagne, along with notes of apple pie, bread dough, cream and candied lemon peel. There's a fine balance between the wine's finesse and its lively character, with a long, smoke-tinged finish. Better than previously reviewed. |
| 2005 | Perrin & Fils La Gille | Rhone | | 30.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Dark and smoky, with alluring cocoa powder, mesquite and bacon fat notes leading the way for rich black currant, melted licorice and espresso. The long, smoldering finish shows a nice wild side. Impressive now, but better with some cellaring. Grenache and Syrah. |
| 2007 | Perrin & Fils La Gille | Rhone | | 35.00 | 1 | 92 |
| This is loaded with crushed plum, blackberry and fig fruit that's backed by muscular espresso, black licorice and tar notes. Grippy but polished, with a long, spice- and black fruit-filled finish. |
| 2007 | Perrin & Fils Villages | Rhone | | 15.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Very pure, with gorgeous plum and black cherry aromas and flavors laced with enticing spice, graphite and violet notes, followed by a long, silky finish. Delicious. |
| 1999 | Pine Ridge Stags Leap District | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 1 | 94 |
| A tour de force. Deliciously rich and complex, with layers of juicy plum, black cherry, currant and wild berry shaded by anise, cedar, earth and mineral flavors, it fairly gushes with fruit on the finish, yet should age gracefully for another decade, maybe more. |
| 2005 | Pio Cesare Barbaresco | Barbaresco | | 61.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Rose petal and berry aromas follow through to a full body, with chewy yet velvety tannins and a long finish. Offers a serious depth of fruit. |
| 2004 | Pio Cesare Barolo | Barolo | | 62.00 | 3 | 94 |
| Extremely attractive aromas of blackberry, fresh mushroom and mahogany. Full-bodied, with lovely fruit, soft tannins and a long finish. Chewy, yet balanced and pretty. Builds on the palate. A big and juicy red. |
| 2005 | Pio Cesare Barolo | Barolo | | 61.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Very ripe fruit aromas, with sultana, prune and dried flowers. Full-bodied, with seamless yet chewy tannins and a long finish. Lasts a long time. |
| 2006 | Pio Cesare Barolo | Barolo | | 61.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Sweet and spicy, displaying a viscous texture that envelops the cherry, menthol and allspice notes. Firm, upright tannins on the finish keep this honest, and the spice lingers, along with notes of mineral. Needs time. |
| 2008 | Podere Elia Barbera D'Asti | Barbera | | 15.00 | 1 | 87 |
| 2006 | Produttori | Barbaresco | | 35.00 | 2 | 92 |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Produttori Barbaresco | Barbaresco | | 37.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Very aromatic, showing menthol, spice and blackberry, this is sweet and juicy on the palate, with ripe fruit and oak spice notes. The tannins pack a bit of an edge, so give this at least a year. Fine length. |
| 2005 | Produttori Barbaresco Montefico | Barbaresco | | 80.00 | 2 | 93 |
| The 2005 Barbaresco Riserva Montefico is simply beautiful in the way it combines elements of florality and structure, which makes it one of the more complex, multi-faceted wines in 2005. Sweet roses blossom on the palate, followed by succulent ripe raspberries, mint and baking spices. As the wine sits in the glass the layers continue to fill out, revealing a wine of first-class pedigree. This is an exceptional effort from the Produttori! |
| 2005 | Produttori Barbaresco Montestefano | Barbaresco | | 80.00 | 2 | 93 |
| The 2005 Barbaresco Riserva Montestefano reveals a seamless core of sweet roses, ripe, juicy raspberries and spices, all of which come together in a round, sensual expression of Nebbiolo. In 2005 the Montestefano possesses terrific freshness, detail and vibrancy. Licorice, leather and anise linger on the sublime finish. The Montestefano is one of the highlights among these Riservas. |
| 2005 | Produttori Barbaresco Rabaja Riserva | Barbaresco | | 80.00 | 2 | 95 |
| A delicious nose of ripe fruit and Indian spices, with perfumes. Full-bodied, with velvety tannins and a beautiful core of fruit. Features blackberry, chocolate and citrus fruit on the finish. |
| 2009 | Produttori Nebbiolo Langhe | Nebbiolo | | 20.00 | 2 | 89 |
| 2004 | Prunotto Barbaresco | Barbaresco | | 55.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Lots of ripe strawberry and raspberry aromas follow through to a full-bodied palate, with chewy tannins and a long, caressing finish. A well-crafted red. |
| 2004 | Prunotto Barbaresco - Bric Turot | Barbaresco | | 80.00 | 2 | 93 |
| This is very rich and jammy, with a thick palate of plum jam and toasty oak, along with coffee and cedar undertones. Full, rich and very long, with impressive concentration and wonderful length. |
| 2004 | Prunotto Barolo - Bussia | Barolo | | 87.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Lots of dried dark fruits, along with flowers, follow through to a full body, with velvety, soft-textured tannins and a long, long finish. Polished and attractive. |
| 2006 | Raptor Ridge | Pinot Noir | | 27.00 | 2 | 91 |
| Soft, ripe and appealing for its cherry and red berry flavors as they roll unimpeded over fine tannins and hang around on the finish, where they suggest prosciutto and spice. |
| 2009 | Renato Ratti Barbera D'Asti | Barbera | | 19.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Rich and succulent, sporting black cherry, blackberry and licorice flavors. This is muscular and laced with tannins, lending a slight bitterness now. But it's full of sweet fruit, so allow a year or so. |
| 2005 | Renato Ratti Barolo - Conca | Barolo | | 80.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Intense aromas of dried flowers and berries. Concentrated and full, with ripe fruit and supervelvety tannins. Long and gorgeous. |
| 2005 | Renato Ratti Barolo - Rocche | Barolo | | 85.00 | 1 | 96 |
| Shows ripe strawberry and black cherry aromas, with hints of flowers. Full-bodied, with chewy tannins and lots of fruit, vanilla and white pepper character. Long and rich. |
| 2006 | Renato Ratti Marcenasco | Barolo | | 50.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Dark in color with a modern style and velvety extraction, the gorgeous Marcenasco expression of Barolo is redolent of blackberries, cherries, spice, leather and tobacco. The finish is long and elegant but not without power and determination. |
| 2006 | Ridge Monte Bello | Chardonnay | | 60.00 | 2 | 95 |
| There’s wonderful perfumed, floral aromas of honeysuckle, lavender, |
| 2007 | Ridge Monte Bello | Red Blend | | 145.00 | 1 | 92 |
| About as close to Bordeaux in California as you get, from the classic cigar box, cedar, tobacco leaf and dill scents to the tight band of mineral, dried currant, sage, cedar and sandalwood notes. Full-bodied, elegant and persistent, this is most interesting on the finish, where the flavors are long and lingering. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. |
| 2009 | Ridge Monte Bello | Chardonnay | | 40.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Well-oaked, with smoky, toasty notes, this rich, intense and full-bodied white delivers tangerine, floral, white peach and nectarine flavors enlivened by acidity |
| 2006 | Ridge Vineyards Estate - Santa Cruz Mountains | Chardonnay | | 40.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Smooth, rich and creamy, complex and concentrated, with layers |
| 2007 | Ridge Vineyards Estate - Santa Cruz Mountains | Chardonnay | | 40.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Combines richness with an elegant, delicate mouthfeel, showing deep layers of ripe fig, honeydew melon, ripe green pear and smoky oak. Balanced, focused, pure and lingering. |
| 2008 | Rival Idealist | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2001 | Rodney Strong Alden - Magnum | Cabernet | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2004 | Rodney Strong Alexander's Crown - Magnum | Cabernet | | 50.00 | 1 | 88 |
| I understand that this bottle is rather "commercial", however, it's a really nice bottle of wine. Two hour decant. Good rich color, nice thick legs. Nose is rich and complex, a good balance of fruit and tannins. This complexity carries through on the palate. Very well balanced, there's good fruit, but also balancing tannins. The finish is clean, fresh and of decent length. |
| 2005 | Rodney Strong Alexander's Crown - Magnum | Cabernet | | 50.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Wasn't exactly overawed by this offering, but it's quite decent, just not exceptional. A bit of oak and dark fruit on the nose, dark color, fairly decent balance with a touch of bitterness on the finish. It tastes like a lot of second-tier California Cabs, and one ought to expect more for the price. It won't disappoint, but it won't win you any kudos, either. |
| NV | Roederer Estate Brut | Sparkling Wine | | 23.00 | 0 | 89 |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Saint Cosme | Rhone | | 16.00 | 1 | 88 |
| Toasty, with violet, fig bread and black currant notes laced with mocha and dark licorice hints. The fleshy, polished finish has a tobacco twinge to keep this honest. |
| 2005 | Saintsbury Brown Ranch | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Not as immediately obvious as the beautiful ’04, this is a more tannic, structured wine, yet it shows the pedigree of the vineyard. Cherry-pie filling, rhubarb, cola and cinnamon spice flavors take over the palate, leaving the impression of balanced, upscale richness in a silky texture. The tannins will be the perfect foil for lamb or veal. |
| 2006 | Saintsbury Cerise | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Saintsbury Stanly Ranch | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 0 | 82 |
| Firm, earthy tannins give this a dry texture, with savory herb and black cherry fruit that's complex on a modest scale. |
| 2006 | Saintsbury Toyon Farm | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 0 | 85 |
| Balanced, with herb, dusty berry, tea and cedar notes that are elegant and easy-drinking, ending with a nice minerality. |
| 2006 | San Felice Chianti Classico Riserva - Il Grigio | Sangiovese | | 25.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Blueberry and mineral aromas. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and pretty wood that turns to sandalwood and violet. Subtle and polished |
| 2006 | Scott Paul Le Paulee | Pinot Noir | | 40.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Bright, vibrant and distinctive for its strawberry and raspberry fruit, riding high over a base of lively acidity and fine tannins. Hints at rose petal and white pepper as the finish keeps zinging. |
| 2010 | Shane Grenache Blanc | Grenache Blanc | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| 2007 | Sheridan Vineyard Mystique | Red Blend | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Siduri Chehalem Mountains | Pinot Noir | | 29.00 | 2 | 90 |
| Smooth, harmonious and appealing for its savory red cherry and delicate clove flavors, lingering on the fine-grained finish. Has style and transparency. |
| 2008 | Siduri Clos Pepe Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 45.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Silvio Giamello Vicenziana | Barbaresco | | 42.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Aromas of eucalyptus, licorice and spice lead off, followed by cherry, currant and mineral. A toned, linear style, with freshness, intensity and grip on the long aftertaste of sweet spice and licorice. |
| 2005 | Sineann | Pinot Noir | | 25.00 | 2 | 88 |
| This Oregon bottling, Sineann’s compendium of many of its left-over barrels from the single vineyard Pinots, is quite tart, with flavors of rhubarb and strawberry. It’s a clean, modest wine, nicely balanced and detailed. The finish shows good length and doesn’t fade. |
| 2006 | Sineann | Pinot Noir | | 36.00 | 1 | 90 |
| Silky in texture and fragrant with berry. There's a sense of elegance in the way this plays out its cream-accented blackberry and cherry flavors, persisting gently on the polished finish. |
| 2003 | Sineann Block One | Cabernet | | 60.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Not overly weighty, but it's wonderfully dense and complex, a lush mouthful of gorgeous currant, cherry and blueberry flavors that just soar over the palate, persisting beautifully on the long, expansive finish. Has firm, fine tannins that don't get in the way, and a touch of spicy oak to balance. |
| 2008 | Sineann Block One | Cabernet | | 75.00 | 1 | NYR |
| The grapes for Sineann's 2008 Block One Cabernet Sauvignon come from Champoux Vineyards, 60 miles east of the Dalles on the Washington side of the Columbia River. Paul Champoux took over the famous Mercer Ranch Vineyards and continues to improve it. Block One is the oldest block in the vineyard and one of the oldest Cab vineyards in Washington. |
| 2008 | Sineann Champoux Vineyard | Cabernet Franc | | 40.00 | 1 | 95 |
| Certainly the finest Champoux vineyard Cabernet Franc yet from Sineann, this immense, concentrated wine blends a riot of dark fruits with baking spices, ground coffee, tobacco and caramel. Great concentration and depth, but drinking it now is robbing the cradle. |
| 2006 | Sineann Covey | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 0 | 89 |
| Smooth and round, with firm tannins and nice hints of cinnamon and dark chocolate around a lithe core of blackberry fruit. Lingers well against fine tannins. |
| 2005 | Sineann Lazare Vineyards | Cabernet | | 65.00 | 0 | 85 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Sineann Old Vine | Zinfandel | | 30.00 | 0 | 90 |
| No notes |
| 2003 | Sineann Resonance | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Ripe, round and seductive.Fleshy, with currant, plum and blackberry flavors shaded with hints of sweet, exotic spice, lingering effortlessly on the incredibly long, elegant finish. |
| 2006 | Sineann Resonance | Pinot Noir | | 48.00 | 1 | 89 |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | Sineann Resonance Reserve | Pinot Noir | | 72.00 | 1 | 92 |
| No notes available |
| 2007 | Sleight of Hand Cellars Levitation | Syrah | | 40.00 | 0 | 93 |
| Rich and fleshy, not heavy but beautifully focused and deftly balanced to play its fresh boysenberry and currant flavors against fine tannins and hints of licorice and pepper on the finish |
| 2007 | Sleight of Hand Cellars The Archimage | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Smooth and succulent, brimming with red berry and rhubarb flavors that sing sweetly against hints of lime and espresso, lingering on the refined finish. Merlot and Cabernet Franc. |
| 2007 | Sleight of Hand Cellars The Illusionist | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Firm in texture, with a generous beam of blackberry, cherry and coffee flavors pushing through the tannins to show elegantly on the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Syrah and Merlot. |
| 2008 | Sparkman Darkness | Syrah | | 56.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Dark, juicy, dusky and seductive, playing earthy notes of wet soil and smoke against rich boysenberry and currant fruit, lingering against modest tannins on the balanced finish. This has plenty of room to grow. |
| 2008 | Sparkman Lumiere | Chardonnay | | 30.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Native yeast, weekly batinage (lees stirring) in 50% new barrels, and, most importantly, a superb vineyard—Stillwater Creek—make for the best Chardonnay yet from Sparkman. Yeasty and young, dense and loaded with fresh pear, toasted nuts and butter, this is seductive and immensely enjoyable. |
| 2009 | Sparkman Lumiere | Chardonnay | | 25.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2010 | Sparkman Lumiere | Chablis | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Spring Valley Vineyard Frederick | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 0 | 89 |
| Firm in texture, with a crisp edge to the cherry, menthol and iodine aromas and flavors, hitting a smoky note as the finish lingers against chewy tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. |
| 2003 | Spring Valley Vineyard Nina Lee | Syrah | | 40.00 | 1 | 89 |
| Not subtle, but it has plenty of character, starting with the dense plum and pepper flavors and a touch of meatiness as the finish persists through hard-edged tannins. needs cellaring to tame it. |
| 2004 | Spring Valley Vineyard Nina Lee | Syrah | | 50.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Almost no one got fruit in Walla Walla in 2004—a freeze year—and it’s a sure bet no one got Syrah fruit any better than this. A bottle-full of thick, black juice, sappy and saturated both in color and pure fruit flavor, this massive Syrah matches its brawn with brio—peppery spice, delicate herb and toasty cracker. Nonetheless it is the monster fruit that carries the wine through an extravagant middle and soaring into a satiny, juice-bomb of a finish. |
| 2005 | Spring Valley Vineyard Nina Lee | Syrah | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Silky, round and gentle, with hints of green olive adding interest to the blackberry, currant and tar flavors, which linger on the open-textured finish. |
| 2006 | Spring Valley Vineyard Nina Lee | Syrah | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Silky, round and gentle, with hints of green olive adding interest to the blackberry, currant and tar flavors, which linger on the open-textured finish. |
| 2000 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Ultrasmooth and gently spicy, a gorgeous rainbow of plum, cherry, cedar, chocolate and exotic spice flavors that play across a supple frame, polished to a deep sheen and echoing forever. |
| #17 Wine for 2002 |
| 2001 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 1 | 94 |
| Gloriously ripe, decadent and complex, offering coffee-scented blackberry, currant, cherry and exotic spice aromas and flavors that extend and expand on the subtle, elegant finish. A graceful wine that packs in plenty of flavor and lasts and lasts. Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. |
| 2003 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 40.00 | 2 | 94 |
| Supple, generous and beautifully structured to show off its currant, plum and blackberry flavors, gently supported by ultrarefined tannins to let the finish go on and on. |
| 2004 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 2 | 93 |
| The 2004 Uriah blend is 60% Merlot, 31% Cab Franc, and the rest divided between Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot, all estate grown. Ripe Walla Walla fruit, quite rare in 2004, gives structure and sleek, racy, vibrant flavors of boysenberry, currant and cherry. The vineyard’s characteristic wild hay aromatics are less evident, as the fruit soars. This is a wine that should reward significant cellaring time, up to a decade or more. |
| 2005 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | 91 |
| Firm in texture and generous with its black cherry and tar flavors, picking up pretty raspberry and vanilla notes as the finish lingers impressively. A bit lighter than usual. |
| 2006 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Smooth and focused, with a cigar box character to make the ripe blackberry and currant fruit more interesting, finishing with polished tannins. Has great presence without being pushy, and the finish doesn't quit. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. |
| 2007 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Tight, with a red pepper edge to the cherry, currant and multiple spice flavors, echoing impressively on the mildly chewy finish. Needs time to gain some flesh. Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. |
| 2008 | Spring Valley Vineyard Uriah | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | St. Innocent Freedom Hill | Pinot Blanc | | 20.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | St. Innocent Freedom Hill | Chardonnay | | 25.00 | 0 | 90 |
| Light and bright, balancing its pear and nutmeg flavors against lively acidity, lingering enticingly on the finish. |
| 2007 | St. Innocent Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 0 | NYR |
| 2008 | St. Innocent Shea Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 42.00 | 2 | 89 |
| Ripe and broad, with currant, plum and roasted meat flavors playing over a crisp frame, lingering on the finish. |
| 2008 | St. Innocent Zenith Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 36.00 | 2 | 93 |
| Tangy, vibrant and many-layered, this feels dense without extra weight. The mineral, spice and dry earth notes compete for attention with blackberry and black olive flavors, finishing with impressive persistence. |
| 2007 | Sterling Cellar Club | Pinot Noir | | 30.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2008 | Sterling Cellar Club | Pinot Noir | | 30.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Sterling Cellar Club | Pinot Noir | | 30.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 1993 | Sterling SVR | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 1 | 88 |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Syncline | Viognier | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Syncline Columbia Valley | Syrah | | 24.00 | 0 | 92 |
| Wonderful aromatics, with suggestions of carpaccio, olive and violets. The tannins are ripe and polished, underlying glorious purple fruits, a panoply of berries and plums. It’s still very young, but made with perfect texture and balance, and a little white chocolate in the finish. |
| 2007 | Syncline McKinley Springs | Syrah | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Tablas Creek Esprit De Beaucastle | Rhone | | 50.00 | 1 | 97 |
| Rich, dry and full-bodied, with loamy earth, dried berry, mineral, anise and black licorice flavors that run deep and persistent, layered and concentrated, ending with a long, tight finish. Mourvèdre, Grenache, Syrah and Counoise |
| 2006 | The Pines 1852 Able Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 5005 | Tobin James Black Magic | Petite Sirah | | | 1 | NYR |
| 2003 | Torres Gran Coronas Reserva | Cabernet | | 15.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2004 | Travieso Amaranta | Syrah | | 36.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Travieso Amaranta | Syrah | | 36.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Travieso Amaranta | Syrah | | 36.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Travieso Amaranta | Syrah | | 36.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Travieso Chupacabras | Red Blend | | 30.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Travieso Chupacabras | Red Blend | | 25.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Travieso Chupacabras | Red Blend | | 20.00 | 0 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2003 | Travieso El Rey | Cabernet | | 39.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2004 | Travieso El Rey | Cabernet | | 36.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2006 | Travieso El Rey | Cabernet | | 36.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Travieso El Rey | Cabernet | | 36.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Travieso El Rey - Extra Barrel Aged | Cabernet | | 45.00 | 1 | |
| No notes |
| 2009 | Travieso La Llorona | White Wine | | 25.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2007 | Travieso The Other Program | Sangiovese | | 35.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 1995 | Tuke Holdsworth | Port | | 50.00 | 0 | 88 |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Vietti Barolo - Castiglione | Barolo | | 45.00 | 2 | 92 |
| Shows sweet berry and perfume on the nose, with rose and raspberry. Full-bodied, with silky tannins and a milk chocolate, berry and vanilla aftertaste. Big and chewy. Yet balanced and very pretty |
| 2000 | Vietti Barolo - Lazzarito | Barolo | | 80.00 | 2 | 94 |
| This shows masses of blackberries and fresh flowers on the nose, turning to licorice. Full-bodied, with supersilky tannins and a long finish. This is dense yet fresh. A sleeping giant dressed in silk pajamas |
| 2009 | Vietti Tre Vigne D'Asti | Barbera | | 20.00 | 2 | NYR |
| No notes |
| 2005 | Vincent Paris Cornas - Granit 60 | Rhone | | 50.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Deliciously ripe, showing crushed plum and blackberry fruit that is kept honest by briary grip, with notes of sweet licorice, lavender and iron. The rich finish has a rock solid-structure and is built for the cellar. |
| 2006 | Vincent Paris Cornas - Granit 60 | Rhone | | 55.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Really racy, with a terrific beam of raspberry ganache, blackberry and licorice flavors coursing over a bright minerally spine. The long finish really sings with purity and drive. |
| 2007 | Vincent Paris Cornas - Granit 60 | Rhone | | 55.00 | 1 | 92 |
| Superfresh and very driven, with iron and sanguine notes rippling through the silky layers of blackberry and black cherry. Tangy olive and tobacco notes chime in on the lengthy finish. There's latent depth to this |
| 2006 | White Rose Dragon's Bluff - Maresh | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | White Rose Dragon's Bluff - White Rose Vineyard | Pinot Noir | | 60.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | White Rose Estate | Pinot Noir | | 75.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2006 | White Rose Mercotti's Millieu | Pinot Noir | | 50.00 | 1 | NYR |
| No notes available |
| 2008 | William Fevre Vaulorent Premier Cru | Chablis | | 47.00 | 2 | 92 |
| There's a little oak influence to this white, but it melds well with the clean lemon, floral and mineral flavors. Steely and firm, finishing like spring water running over stones. |
| 2005 | Zanzibar Cellars Sandra | Red Blend | | 50.00 | 0 | 93 |
| Velvety and generous. A plush mouthful of blueberry, plum, cream and dark chocolate flavors that echo through the long, resonant finish. Strikes a superb balance between rich fruit, savory side notes and good depth. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah. |
| 2005 | Zanzibar Cellars Sandra - Magnum | Red Blend | | 125.00 | 1 | 93 |
| Velvety and generous. A plush mouthful of blueberry, plum, cream and dark chocolate flavors that echo through the long, resonant finish. Strikes a superb balance between rich fruit, savory side notes and good depth. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Syrah. |
| 2006 | Zefina | Zinfandel | | 15.00 | 0 | NYR |
| 2004 | Zefina Serience | Red Blend | | 25.00 | 0 | 88 |
| No notes |