1
|
|
2008
|
96
|
$60
|
The aromatics are full and distinct,
with loads of dark berry and charcoal, then this unfolds touches of black
cherry, raspberry and red and black licorice on the palate, sailing along and
firming nicely on the finish. Shows all the muscle, density, richness and
range of flavor found in many Shafer reds, yet takes it to another level in
this vintage. The best Relentless yet. Syrah and Petite Sirah. Best from 2013
through 2023. 3,300 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Napa
|
2
|
|
2010
|
95
|
$41
|
This is jam-packed with dark
blackberry, currant and boysenberry fruit, but cuts like a knife, thanks to
riveting acidity, a blaze of singed iron and a long, charcoal-studded finish.
A lovely lingering note of singed bay leaf adds a mouthwatering echo. Best
from 2015 through 2030. 3,330 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
3
|
|
2010
|
95
|
$69
|
Pepper, clove and plum flavors weave
through dense dark cherry and roasted plum fruit, melding together smoothly
on the complex and expansive finish. A big wine with depth and harmony. Best
from 2013 through 2020. 4,000 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Australia
|
Region:
Australia
|
4
|
|
2010
|
98
|
$128
|
Lots of cocoa powder and coffee
frame a massive block of dark plum, black currant and fig fruit, while
massively endowed tannins stride from start to finish. Cassis, anise and
Lapsang souchong tea notes hang in the background for now, but should emerge
more with extended cellaring. The very dark, almost brooding finish is
dominated by charcoal-coated grip, but the purity still wins out in the end.
A very, very large wine. Best from 2017 through 2035. 5,600 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
5
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$60
|
This is a bird of a different
feather, with an exotic, vibrant aroma of toasted coconut, followed by an
almond cream note that gives way to the core of green fig, papaya, Cavaillon
melon and honey. There's stunning richness and mouthfeel, with the power to
be one of the longer-lived wines of the vintage. Very impressive. Best from
2015 through 2040. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 11,000 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Sauternes
|
6
|
|
2009
|
95
|
$105
|
This is powerful Cabernet, with
gutsy weight, but also polished feel to the fresh plum, warm blackberry
sauce, bittersweet ganache and roasted apple wood notes. Long and tarry
through the finish, but still invigorating despite its heft. Needs some time
to round fully into form. Best from 2017 through 2035. Tasted twice, with
consistent notes. 21,000 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Bordeaux
|
7
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$40
|
Supple, rich and complex, layering
its dark berry, black cherry, pink grapefruit and exotic spice flavors on a
velvety frame. The finish lingering effortlessly. Drink now through 2019.
3,555 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Oregon
|
Region:
Oregon
|
8
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$45
|
Offers rich, smooth, layered flavors
of blackberry, wild berry, plum and cassis. Full-bodied, yet graceful and
elegant, this is most interesting on the finish, where the flavors glide
along and pick up a subtle lift of spice and mocha. Drink now through 2024.
3,602 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Sonoma
|
9
|
|
2007
|
94
|
$60
|
Though dense and rich, this red is
also sleekly proportioned and harmonious. The cherry, raspberry, licorice,
earth and tobacco flavors meld with the solid structure. Offers fine length
and complexity that increases with aeration. Best from 2014 through 2025.
3,750 cases made. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
10
|
|
2010
|
95
|
$120
|
Dark and powerful, yet elegant, with
a delicious core of crushed raspberry, blackberry and damson plum notes
tightly woven with silky tannins. The minerally finish lingers on with
layered flavors of wildflowers, melted licorice and spice box. Drink now through
2020. 1,250 cases imported. –NW
|
Country:
Argentina
|
Region:
Mendoza
|
11
|
|
2009
|
95
|
$55
|
This red is round, generous and
expressive, offering plum, loganberry, cherry and clove flavors that pick up
hints of loam and floral character as the finish tightens its focus.
Impressive for its length and deft balance. Best from 2013 through 2019. 1,994
cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Washington
|
Region:
Washington
|
12
|
|
2010
|
97
|
$58
|
Ripe, pure and racy, with
mouthwatering anise, steeped plum and hoisin sauce notes allied to a terrific
graphite spine that carries the very lengthy finish while ganache, pepper,
Turkish coffee and fresh espresso fill in on the back end. Shows the powerful
structure and authoritative fruit of the vintage. Best from 2015 through
2030. 1,665 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
13
|
|
2009
|
95
|
$55
|
Very polished and ripe, with intense
mocha and spice aromas and powerful flavors of blackberry, French roast
coffee and black olive. The long finish is filled with effusive dark
chocolate and Asian spice notes, with hints of toast and cream. Drink now through
2020. 3,458 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
Portugal
|
Region:
Portugal
|
14
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$32
|
Sumptuous and distinctive for its
range of cherry, boysenberry, floral and dark chocolate flavors, dancing
suavely through the long, expressive finish. The tannins are submerged, and
this has miles to go. Drink now through 2019. 1,000 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Oregon
|
Region:
Oregon
|
15
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$48
|
Both rich and powerful, with a
measure of finesse and restraint, mingling dark berry, boysenberry and
huckleberry flavors, with notes of spice, cedar, tobacco and licorice.
Maintains its focus and persistence on the finish. A new Syrah from Alban,
coming from a younger vineyard. Drink now through 2023. 1,200 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
16
|
|
2010
|
96
|
$66
|
This takes a decidedly old-school
approach with its very distinctive bay leaf and juniper notes leading the
way, along with roasted mesquite and alder wood. The core of steeped black
currant, roasted plum and blackberry fruit waits in reserve while the long,
ganache- and tar-filled finish has nice rugged grip, with a peppery echo.
Should cellar wonderfully. Best from 2015 through 2030. 8,000 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
17
|
|
2007
|
95
|
$40
|
This concentrated, well-toned red is
packed with cherry, plum, soy and spice aromas and flavors. Round and
balanced, with a sweet berry and mineral aftertaste. Really builds nicely,
gaining elegance and intensity. The fine aftertaste of cherry, tobacco and
woodsy notes lingers. Best from 2014 through 2027. Tasted twice, with
consistent notes. 1,400 cases made. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Piedmont
|
18
|
|
2002
|
96
|
$70
|
The definition of finesse, with a
succulent, complex mouthful of lemon peel, oatmeal and subtle pear and apple
flavors that soar through the elegant finish. The fine bead creates an almost
creamy feel. Offers freshness and a sense of majesty. Drink now. 1,013 cases
made. –HS
|
Country:
Oregon
|
Region:
Oregon
|
19
|
|
2010
|
96
|
$70
|
Features amazing richness, focus and
purity of flavor, presented on a beam of acidity. Offers great aromatics and
flavors to match, with tiers of blackberry, mahogany, wild berry, raspberry
and black licorice that form a tight, persistent core, ending with a pleasant
loamy earthiness. Drink now through 2026. 866 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
20
|
|
2009
|
95
|
$75
|
Elegant, with a deep purple color
and complex, refined flavors of dark currant, ginger, blackberry and dark
plum. Boysenberry and licorice notes chime in as well, lingering on the suave
and silky finish. Fruity and complex. Best from 2016 through 2034. 12,000
cases made. –KM
|
Country:
Portugal
|
Region:
Portugal
|
21
|
|
2009
|
97
|
$85
|
Strikingly complex, rich and fruity,
this beautifully proportioned red delivers an initial burst of red berry
fruit that echoes red and black licorice. This quickly gains traction and
depth, with firm, layered tannins that give the spicy berry flavors a perfect
foundation. Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Syrah. Drink now through 2024. 820 cases
made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
22
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$75
|
Polished, effortless and juicy, with
blackberry, currant, black olive and tar flavors, beautifully balanced to
rotate all its facets as the finish keeps spinning. Harmonious and
expressive. Drink now through 2019. 754 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Washington
|
Region:
Washington
|
23
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$95
|
This is well-cloaked for now in
roasted vanilla and espresso notes, but there's ample, fleshy fig sauce and
mulled blackberry fruit in reserve. The long finish sports a melted licorice
snap feel. Dense, but beautifully polished and pure. For the cellar. Best
from 2015 through 2030. 5,140 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Bordeaux
|
24
|
|
2008
|
95
|
$57
|
Hints of coffee and sandalwood mark
this rich yet racy red, whose core flavors are cherry, strawberry and
underbrush. There's some muscle and density, firming up on the finish, with
adequate sweet fruit for balance. Best from 2015 through 2030. 1,200 cases
made. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Piedmont
|
25
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$119
|
The first impression of this red is
purity and finesse, as black currant, raspberry and violet aromas and flavors
stay focused and persistent. An earthy leather element and mineral notes
chime in on the finish, backed by a vibrant structure. Sangiovese. Best from
2015 through 2032. 5,000 cases made. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
26
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$55
|
At first, this teases, fresh and
snappy, displaying lively acidity and zesty citrus, green apple and pear
notes. Turns pithy midpalate, but the flavors pour though on the finish,
adding mouthwatering touches of light oak and mineral. Should only get better.
Drink now through 2025. 1,974 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Bay Area/Central Coast
|
27
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$95
|
A gorgeous wine, featuring a torrent
of raspberry and blackberry fruit that blazes along, thanks to riveting
acidity that just won't quit. Loads of spice, black tea and perfectly
integrated toast notes hold sway on the very sleek finish for now, but this is
really stunning for its beam of pure fruit. Best from 2015 through 2030.
Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 1,000 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Bordeaux
|
28
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$24
|
A classy art-of-the-blend cuvée
that's very ripe but still complex, relying on rich dark berry, plum, crushed
rock and cedar. So young and vibrant at this stage, yet also so deep and
tight, that it's both tempting to drink now but looks like a great cellar
choice as well. Drink now through 2021. 7,688 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Other California
|
29
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$56
|
Rich, layered and well-structured,
with floral red currant aromas and complex flavors of black cherry, anise and
toasty spice that lead to big but ripe tannins. Drink now through 2018. 1,028
cases made. –TF
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Napa
|
30
|
|
2010
|
92
|
$20
|
Smooth and spicy, with distinctive
black olive and tar overtones to the blackberry and spice flavors, finishing
with supple texture and refinement. Drink now through 2018. 22,000 cases
made. –HS
|
Country:
Australia
|
Region:
Australia
|
31
|
|
2009
|
92
|
$25
|
A powerful and opulent style, this
red displays ripe cherry, black currant, violet and tobacco aromas and
flavors. The tannins are gripping on the finish, which lingers with sweet
fruit and mineral accents. Well-proportioned. Best from 2014 through 2021.
22,000 cases made. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
32
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$32
|
Lush and inviting, with layers of
fig, persimmon, mango and creamed Jonagold apple fruit, all supported by
finely beaded acidity that lends definition and length to the finish. More
cut and length than just weight in the end. Drink now through 2017. 4,028 cases
made. –JM
|
Country:
South Africa
|
Region:
Walker Bay
|
33
|
|
2009
|
91
|
$12
|
Dense yet lively, this expressive
red shows morello cherry, floral, licorice and mineral flavors supported by
light, firm tannins and fresh acidity. Mountain herb and smoke notes keep
this from turning candied, but the sweet fruit lingers nicely. Drink now
through 2016. 6,500 cases made. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
34
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$29
|
Powerfully rendered, with thickly
layered black currant confiture, boysenberry and linzer torte flavors
intertwined with bittersweet cocoa-covered coffee bean and licorice root
notes. The finish is chiseled graphite, with good tension that should unwind
in the cellar. Best from 2014 through 2022. 3,500 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
35
|
|
2005
|
92
|
$18
|
This red delivers intense flavors in
a plush texture. Cherry, berry and spice notes mingle over pillowy yet
supportive tannins, as bright acidity keeps this focused and fresh. Still
youthful, with plenty of stuffing to age. Drink now through 2018. 2,000 cases
imported. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
36
|
|
2008
|
93
|
$17
|
Sanguine flavors of roasted plum and
dried cherry feature a concentrated iron note, with plenty of smoke and spice
accents. Mocha and dark chocolate overtones mark the broad, ripe-tasting
finish. Pure and lively. Best from 2013 through 2022. 30,000 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Provence
|
37
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$30
|
Very balanced and lively, with
well-defined flavors of red peach, melon, baked apple and spice.
Well-concentrated, with a long, luscious, cream- and vanilla-filled finish.
Mouthwatering. Drink now through 2040. 2,000 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
Germany
|
Region:
Germany
|
38
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$13
|
This lithe, powerful red offers
concentrated cherry, plum tart and blackberry flavors that feature plenty of
spicy notes. A dark chocolate accent lingers on the firm, moderately tannic
finish. Best from 2014 through 2018. 35,000 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Languedoc-Roussillon
|
39
|
|
2010
|
92
|
$20
|
Finely knit, with a vibrancy to the
refined acidity that focuses the flavors of ripe peach, pear, guava and
kumquat. Silky in texture, with a core of smoky minerality that pushes
through on the lasting finish. Drink now through 2022. 2,100 cases imported. –AN
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Alsace
|
40
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$24
|
Pure, rich layers of blackberry and
wild fruit are intense and focused, firming with a crushed rock minerality
and a long, persistent finish. Drink now through 2022. 1,459 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
41
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$9
|
Vibrant and rich, this harmonious
red offers cherry, strawberry and floral notes. Picks up some of the typical
underbrush and tobacco accents on the lingering finish. Drink now through
2018. 25,000 cases imported. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
42
|
|
2011
|
90
|
$11
|
Lively, refreshing and vibrant, with
mulberry and pear flavors that show a leafy hint, all on a silky texture.
Syrah. Drink now. 12,000 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Washington
|
Region:
Washington
|
43
|
|
2010
|
91
|
$18
|
A light oak influence adds roundness
and a hint of spice to the apple and melon flavors in this white, which shows
fine structure and a long, fresh finish. A lemon note lingers on the
aftertaste. Drink now through 2016. 2,000 cases imported. –BS
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Burgundy
|
44
|
|
2007
|
96
|
$125
|
A pure, ethereal Barolo, boasting
rose, cherry and strawberry aromas and flavors, with a touch of tar. Very
harmonious and elegant, with firm yet well-delineated tannins supporting the
whole. Old-school and refined. Best from 2016 through 2035. 1,830 cases made.
–BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Piedmont
|
45
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$12
|
A ripe and luscious red, with rich
flavors of dark cherry and dark chocolate that echo with plenty of spiciness.
Features a sculpted finish of cocoa powder and raspberry. Drink now through
2018. 15,000 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southwest France
|
46
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$13
|
Smoke and straw notes mix with
tropical mango and pineapple fruit and an exotic hint of jasmine in this
exuberant white, which is medium- to full-bodied without being weighty,
offering good cut throughout. Drink now through 2017. 40,000 cases made. –AN
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Veneto
|
47
|
|
2009
|
90
|
$15
|
Sweet blackberry, plum and
pomegranate fruit is fresh and vibrant as this red unfolds across the palate.
Hints of flowers and spices intermingle, but this is more about the juicy
fruit. Drink now through 2018. 19,000 cases imported. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Piedmont
|
48
|
|
2010
|
92
|
$20
|
This has weight and depth, but
remains stylish, with ginger and glazed pear notes in reserve while
persimmon, green almond and piecrust notes lead the way. Lovely cut on the
finish keeps the ginger edge echoing. Should develop nicely in the cellar.
Drink now through 2020. 1,200 cases imported. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Loire
|
49
|
|
2009
|
92
|
$24
|
This red is meaty and
graphite-tinged, offering sweet cherry, licorice and spice flavors. Balanced,
with dense tannins and a long, tar- and spice-filled aftertaste. Best from
2014 through 2028. 2,000 cases imported. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
50
|
|
2006
|
96
|
$125
|
Graceful, elegant and stylish,
offering a pleasant touch of maturity, with a complex array of anise, cherry,
raspberry, red licorice and fresh porcini flavors leading to a medium body.
Shows the benefits of cellaring. Drink now through 2018. 960 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Sonoma
|
51
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$18
|
A ripe red, offering ample acidity
to support the jammy kirsch, plum sauce and wild berry coulis notes that are
framed by medium tannins, with the finish pumping out hints of smoke, spice
box and graphite. Drink now through 2017. 60,000 cases imported. –NW
|
Country:
Argentina
|
Region:
Mendoza
|
52
|
|
2009
|
90
|
$14
|
Base notes of chocolate and coffee
liqueur enrich smoke, tea leaf, roasted plum and black currant candy flavors
in this well-honed red, while a supple juiciness and a hint of dried mint
linger on the finish. Teroldego, Lagrein and Merlot. Drink now through 2018.
Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 6,500 cases imported. –AN
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Trentino/Alto Adige
|
53
|
|
2011
|
92
|
$20
|
This intriguing white delivers a
complex aromatic note that includes whiffs of petrol, oolong tea, mineral and
lanolin, giving way to an equally complex flavor profile. Crunchy green
apple, Meyer lemon and melon flavors are refreshing, balanced, and persistent
on the finish. Drink now. 1,500 cases imported. –MW
|
Country:
New Zealand
|
Region:
New Zealand
|
54
|
|
2009
|
90
|
$16
|
A very aromatic red, offering floral
and spice overtones to the flavors of cassis, ripe cherry, damson plum and
smoky mineral. Firm tannins structure this muscular red, but it's balanced,
and should show more with time. Garnacha Tintorera and Monastrell. Best from
2014 through 2019. 10,000 cases made. –AN
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
55
|
|
2011
|
91
|
$17
|
A structured, complex and
intense-tasting white, with flavors of white cherry, quince, mineral, beeswax
and hints of tarragon. A smoky essence runs through as well, which carries
into to the finish, with notes of dried basil. Jacquère. Best from 2013
through 2021. 4,000 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Jura/Savoie
|
56
|
|
2011
|
91
|
$18
|
Vibrant, bracing and compelling,
this white aims pear, pineapple and lime flavors straight to the palate.
Persists impressively on the finish. Drink now through 2018. 1,600 cases
imported. –HS
|
Country:
Australia
|
Region:
Australia
|
57
|
|
2010
|
91
|
$22
|
This plush red delivers black
cherry, licorice, mineral and smoke flavors. Harmonious and focused,
supported by well-integrated tannins and firm acidity. Not a showy wine, but
has complexity and depth. Drink now through 2018. 50,000 cases made. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
58
|
|
2010
|
91
|
$22
|
Dense and layered, but very refined,
with a violet note stitching the crushed black cherry, steeped blackberry and
anise flavors together, while an iron note adds range to the finish. Drink
now through 2018. 4,000 cases imported. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
59
|
|
2011
|
91
|
$23
|
This bright, juicy white delivers
succulent notes of passion fruit, honeydew melon, Key lime and Asian pear,
which together make a clear, focused and intense chorus that persists on the
long finish. Drink now. 27,000 cases made. –MW
|
Country:
New Zealand
|
Region:
New Zealand
|
60
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$135
|
Pure and impressively expressive,
with focused currant, plum, blackberry and black olive aromatics turning on
the palate to a more complex profile, weaving in coffee, crème brûlée and
chai tea notes, all wrapped in a polished texture. The finish doesn't want to
quit. Best from 2015 through 2024. 3,985 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Washington
|
Region:
Washington
|
61
|
|
2004
|
92
|
$28
|
A dense, plush texture carries ripe
flavors of plum, raisin, tar and tobacco in this bold red. Full tannins and
bright acidity give this a youthful character. Expressive and harmonious.
Drink now through 2018. 4,000 cases made. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
62
|
|
2009
|
91
|
$19
|
This dark, ripe red delivers jammy
layered flavors of plum paste, fig and kirsch. Full-bodied, with
well-embedded acidity and fine tannins, joined by hints of spice box, flint
and olive on the long, driving finish. Drink now through 2015. 6,000 cases
made. –NW
|
Country:
Chile
|
Region:
Rapel
|
63
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$29
|
Notably rich and creamy, yet elegant
and refined, this Chardonnay delivers a supple, fleshy beam of white peach,
nectarine and fresh-cut flower flavors, with a creamy vanilla edge. Drink now
through 2018. 5,500 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Carneros
|
64
|
|
2011
|
90
|
$17
|
This offers a very tasty mix of red
and black cherry fruit, along with muddled strawberry, light spice and tea
shadings. A flash of tobacco marks the full-bodied finish. Solid Tavel. Drink
now. 30,000 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Southern Rhône
|
65
|
|
2010
|
92
|
$29
|
This powerful, plush-tasting Grüner
boasts concentrated flavors of apple tart, baked peach, ruby grapefruit and
gooseberry. Unctuous in the midpalate, with a lingering finish of smoke and
spice notes. Very expressive. Drink now through 2020. 879 cases imported. –KM
|
Country:
Austria
|
Region:
Niederösterreich
|
66
|
|
2011
|
90
|
$12
|
A dark, succulent red, exuding black
cherry, blackberry and violet aromas and flavors. Pure and focused, with a
long aftertaste of sweet fruit, flowers and spice. Drink now through 2016.
4,250 cases imported. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Piedmont
|
67
|
|
2011
|
94
|
$32
|
Intense aromas and flavors of peach
strudel and apple pie feature notes of custard and gooseberry. The vibrant
finish echoes with long, pure glazed citrus notes. A powerful style. Drink
now through 2030. 500 cases imported. –KM
|
Country:
Germany
|
Region:
Germany
|
68
|
|
2010
|
92
|
$25
|
This dark red balances racy wild
berry and cassis flavors with full yet fine tannins, showing layers of toasty
oak, smoke and baking spice. Polished, with a long, savory aftertaste of
spice, cured olive and underbrush. Drink now through 2017. 10,700 cases made.
–NW
|
Country:
Chile
|
Region:
Rapel
|
69
|
|
2011
|
92
|
$25
|
A suave white, with a creamy edge to
the ripe melon, citrus and blanched almond notes that build with intensity,
as the finish lingers with an aftertaste of underbrush, citrus zest and
chalk. Drink now through 2016. 1,500 cases made. –NW
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Campania
|
70
|
|
2009
|
92
|
$31
|
Offers a very solid core of black
Mission fig, blackberry preserves and freshly roasted espresso flavors, woven
nicely with hints of alder wood, tar and pastis. The long finish shows
polish, with nice grip in reserve. Best from 2013 through 2022. 12,083 cases
made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Bordeaux
|
71
|
|
2009
|
91
|
$24
|
Supple and vibrant, this is
distinctive for the white pepper and mascarpone notes that weave through the
refreshing plum and currant fruit. Lingers impressively, with gentle
intensity. Drink now through 2015. 4,800 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Washington
|
Region:
Washington
|
72
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$35
|
That rare Zin that shows both
richness and a sleek sense of elegance. Briary and floral black raspberry
aromas lead to delicately complex flavors of smoky cherry, wild anise and
white peppercorn. Drink now through 2020. 900 cases made. –TF
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
73
|
|
2011
|
90
|
$15
|
This expressive white shows pear,
lanolin, almond and herbal flavors that are lean yet polished, with crisp
acidity and a light tannic grip. A traditional style. Drink now through 2016.
10,000 cases made. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
74
|
|
2007
|
93
|
$38
|
Seamless from start to finish, both
rich and elegantly sleek. Floral Asian pear and creamy almond aromas lead to
complex and delicately balanced flavors of lively lemon and raspberry, plus
ginger and spice. The finish lingers beautifully. Drink now through 2016.
1,000 cases made. –TF
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Sonoma
|
75
|
|
2005
|
91
|
$25
|
A silky red, offering fresh fruit
flavors of plum and blackberry, with espresso and licorice notes. Firm,
bright and balanced, with a perfumed, floral finish. Drink now through 2018.
10,000 cases imported. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
76
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$42
|
This red exhibits pure, rich, ripe
and concentrated layers of blackberry, boysenberry and black licorice, with
tannins that give the flavors depth and traction. Drink now through 2022.
1,175 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
77
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$44
|
Very dense and superconcentrated,
this offers an impressive mix of dense blackberry, raspberry and huckleberry,
holding its focus and maintaining its supple texture. Drink now through 2023.
3,475 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
South Coast
|
78
|
|
2008
|
93
|
$45
|
This is pure and driven, with
beautiful red currant, blackberry and plum fruit coursing along, laced with
supple but substantial tannins and backed by iron and pepper on the sleek
finish. Should cellar nicely. Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Merlot. Drink now
through 2018. 2,125 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
South Africa
|
Region:
Coastal Region
|
79
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$45
|
Light and silky, this is beguiling
for the way it deftly plays its polished red berry and black cherry fruit
against glints of mineral and white pepper. The finish brings it all together
seamlessly. Drink now through 2018. 1,158 cases made. –HS
|
Country:
Oregon
|
Region:
Oregon
|
80
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$145
|
This beautifully crafted red is
marked by a distinctively complex and subtle mix of dried herb, baking spices
and floral scents, with a tight core of currant and blackberry flavors.
Finishes with a surge of flavors that build and expand. Best from 2014 through
2028. 2,992 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Napa
|
81
|
|
2007
|
93
|
$48
|
This rich red shows plenty of bass
notes, in the form of sweet plum and wood smoke, as the wine plays out across
the palate. Balanced and juicy, with a moderately firm structure. Fine
accents of spice, smoke and tea mark the finish. Best from 2014 through 2028.
3,500 cases made. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
82
|
|
NV
|
90
|
$16
|
A more flattering style, with an
off-dry edge to the walnut paste, hazelnut, date and clove-studded orange
notes, which show nice focus and zip on the finish. Drink now. 2,000 cases
imported. –JM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
83
|
|
2010
|
92
|
$32
|
Well-crafted, tight and structured,
with firm, gripping tannins keeping the zesty, tart wild berry, blackberry
and date-nut bread flavors in check. Drink now through 2020. 10,000 cases
made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Bay Area/Central Coast
|
84
|
|
NV
|
93
|
$50
|
Elegant, with rich base notes of
toasted brioche and smoke adding depth, this integrates finely honed acidity,
detailed texture and flavors of black cherry puree, apple tarte Tatin,
kumquat and grated ginger. Provides a creamy, mineral-tinged finish. Drink
now through 2022. Tasted twice, with consistent notes. 50,000 cases made. –AN
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Champagne
|
85
|
|
2009
|
93
|
$49
|
This gorgeous wine is rich and
supple, displaying ripe, plummy black cherry and blackberry fruit that's
intense and spicy, pure and focused, with a long, pure, lingering finish.
Drink now through 2020. 584 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Sonoma
|
86
|
|
2010
|
94
|
$60
|
This is pure and oh-so-silky,
featuring flavors of black currant, violet and sweet spice, with a hint of
tobacco. The supple texture is offset by refined tannins as this cruises to a
long aftertaste of black currant and spice. Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot
and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2014 through 2024. –BS
|
Country:
Italy
|
Region:
Tuscany
|
87
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$18
|
A fresh, harmonious white, featuring
pineapple, citrus and spice notes backed by juicy acidity and creamy texture.
Well-integrated, with a lingering aftertaste of fruit and chalk. Drink now.
8,000 cases made. –NW
|
Country:
Chile
|
Region:
Coquimbo
|
88
|
|
2008
|
92
|
$32
|
Exuberant flavors of currant,
blackberry, cola and licorice mingle in this racy red, which has light, firm
tannins and vibrant acidity, with plenty of fruit to balance the evident oak.
A lively modern style. Drink now through 2018. 2,000 cases imported. –TM
|
Country:
Spain
|
Region:
Spain
|
89
|
|
2009
|
92
|
$40
|
Dense and tight, exhibiting a firm
core of loamy earth, dried dark berry, spice and cedar. Opens up to black
licorice and anised notes, ending with chewy tannins. Best from 2013 through
2023. 15,000 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Napa
|
90
|
|
2011
|
90
|
$15
|
A rapierlike white, delivering
apple, pear and grapefruit flavors flanked by plenty of mineral and slate
notes. Ripe orange accents linger as plenty of spicy hints mark the vibrant,
long-lasting finish. Drink now through 2018. 5,000 cases made. –KM
|
Country:
Greece
|
Region:
Greece
|
91
|
|
2010
|
93
|
$58
|
Rich and expressive, with bold
layers of ripe blueberry, plum and wild berry flavors that show touches of
spice and espresso. At points open-knit, yet tightening on the finish. Best
from 2013 through 2023. 4,742 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Sonoma
|
92
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$85
|
Striking, rich and opulent, elegant
and refined, with ripe, dense blackberry, melted black licorice and touches
of cinnamon and baking spice. Ends with fine-grained, detailed tannins. Best
from 2013 through 2027. 3,500 cases made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Napa
|
93
|
|
2009
|
96
|
$150
|
Tight and backward, this has dense,
almost chewy layers of fig, currant and plum cake behind a very solid wall of
cedar, roasted vanilla and charcoal notes. There's serious grip on the
finish, with an iron edge that won't quit. Best from 2015 through 2035.
31,500 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Bordeaux
|
94
|
|
2009
|
95
|
$150
|
Taut and structured, with
cedar-laced currant, dark berry and dried berry notes joining a mix of
minerally fresh earth and tobacco flavors, offering a wide range of
tight-knit fruit overall. Firmly tannic on the finish, yet the ripe purity
pushes through. True to form Monte Bello in a classic style. Cabernet
Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2030. 2,800 cases
made. –JL
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Bay Area/Central Coast
|
95
|
|
2009
|
90
|
$20
|
Dark crushed cherries, cassis and
graphite notes are supported by a full-bodied frame of fine tannins and fresh
acidity, as the compact finish unwinds with hints of cured olive, grilled
herb and spice. Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Carmenère and Merlot. Drink now
through 2017. 16,000 cases made. –NW
|
Country:
Chile
|
Region:
Rapel
|
96
|
|
2009
|
94
|
$75
|
Plush and richly structured, but
with a dense, structured core, offering aromas of red currant and toasty
mocha that lead to complex flavors of black cherry and Asian spice. Loamy,
ripe tannins sneak in on the finish. Drink now through 2018. 1,600 cases made.
–TF
|
Country:
California
|
Region:
Napa
|
97
|
|
2011
|
91
|
$27
|
This white is still tight,
exhibiting a very chiseled feel to the flint and gooseberry notes. The
mouthwatering, rapier finish lets chive flower and fleur de sel notes chime
in. Could have some staying power in the cellar. Drink now through 2015.
5,000 cases made. –JM
|
Country:
France
|
Region:
Loire
|
98
|
|
2010
|
94
|
$90
|
Dense, rich and distinctive, this is
superplush and complex, yet also approachable, wrapping its black cherry,
cassis, licorice and roasted meat flavors on a supple, velvety frame.
Finishes long and creamy in texture. Drink now through 2020. 6,328 cases
made. –HS
|
Country:
Australia
|
Region:
Australia
|
99
|
|
2010
|
90
|
$22
|
Generous, with vanilla, plum and
black cherry flavors that are rich and lush, joined by plenty of echoes of
cedar, tobacco and spice notes in the background. The finish reveals plenty
of floral, herb and mineral details. Drink now through 2019. 6,100 cases
imported. –MW
|
Country:
New Zealand
|
Region:
New Zealand
|
100
|
|
2008
|
90
|
$20
|
