1 Columbia Crest 2002 Grand Estates Shiraz 90
Washington, Columbia Valley / $11 Red
Very fruity, youthful and packed with brambly berry flavors. Tart, tangy and loaded with berries and cherries, this racy, snappy effort shows surprising depth and weight for its modest price point. There‘s a nice lick of vanilla in the soft, lush finish.
2 Dao Sul 2003 Quinta do Gradil 90
Portugal, Estremadura / $6 Red
This estate on the outskirts of Lisbon has a 17th-century castle as well as 240 acres of vines. This is a serious blend of Touriga Nacional, Syrah and Alicante Bouschet with great, dark tannins, as well as flavors of red plums. It is still young...give it 4 or 5 years, but it will age well. Best Buy. Imported by Aidil Wines & Liquor Inc.
3 Babcock 2005 Pinot Grigio 91
California, Santa Rita Hills / $15 White
This almost wins the white food wine of the year award. It‘s very dry, very crisp, and refreshingly clean, with balanced citrus zest, green melon, stony mineral and spicy pepper flavors. The acids really come into play on the finish. Let‘s eat!
4 Charles Melton 2005 Rosé 91
Australia, Barossa Valley / $15 Rosé
This is probably the best rosé that comes out of Australia, and I like it better every year. It has an underlying, piquant citrus note, and raspberry and black cherry flavors galore. Medium-full in the mouth, it‘s dry, chalky, refreshing. Darkens and deepens on the finish. A crazy blend of Grenache (47.2%), Shiraz (18%), Pinot Meunier (16%), Cab Sauv (15.5%) and Pinot Noir (3.3%) Imported by Bluewater Wine Co.
5 Undurraga 2005 Aliwen Reserva Chardonnay 90
Chile, Central Valley / $10 White
This new wine from a venerable Chilean producer scores points all over the map. The nose is a smooth ride of white fruits and cleanliness, while the mouth pulsates with pear, green banana and toasted walnuts. Harmonious and sturdy, with fine balance. One of the best ten-buck, buy-and-drink Chards you‘ll find.
6 Carlos Basso 2004 Dos Fincas Cabernet Sauvignon-Merlot 91
Argentina, Uco Valley / $10 Red
Sensational wine for the money. The Cab and Merlot work together seamlessly, as the nose exudes raspberry and sweet leather. Tastes warm and toasty, with ripe fruit softened by chocolate and pillowy tannins. Argentine red at its affordable best.
7 Burgans 2005 Albariño 90
Spain, Rias Baixas / $12 White
To date, this year‘s best value among Spanish white wines is this simple but lovely fruit bomb of an Albariño from the quality-driven Martín Códax cooperative. It literally overflows with peach blossom aromas and melon flavors. Brightly labeled with orange print, it‘s hard to miss. And you wouldn‘t want to.
8 Domaine de la Guicharde 2003 Cuvée Genest 91
France, Côtes-du-Rhône Villages / $14 Red
This is wonderfully fragrant and spicy, filled with scents of garrigue, baking spices and anise, yet at the same time it shows plenty of ripe, mouthfilling fruit. Elegant, complex and a fantastic value. Multiple U.S. importers.
9 Sagelands 2003 Merlot 91
Washington, Columbia Valley / $13 Red
The fleshy, fruity nose suggests very ripe, mixed berry and cherry fruits, and there is a liberal amount of oak. A good, open, broadly fruity mouthfeel knits the wine together nicely. In fact, its flavors seem woven throughout, mixing the fruit with notes of oak, bacon, smoke and ham. Surprisingly long.
10 Ballentine 2005 Pocai Vineyard Old Vines Chenin Blanc 92
California, Napa Valley / $14 White
The vines date to the early 1970s, and the vineyard is on the valley floor near Calistoga. Winemaker Bruce Devlin worked at Boschendal, South Africa‘s first winery to barrel ferment Chenin Blanc. Dry and crisp, this wine shows wildflower and citrus flavors, and a sweet, green-pea note with an edge of toasted wood. Not only is this an elegant table white, it should evolve over the next five to seven years.
11 Punto Final 2004 Malbec 91
Argentina, Perdriel / $11 Red
One of the year‘s best red wine values has to be this fully ripe and totally structured Malbec made by Alberto Antonini (winemaker for Altos Las Hormigas) and Hector Durigutti. The color almost gives away its power; and if not, the aromas of marinated meat, plum and blackberry essence will. Saturated, thick and modern, but made right. Perfect with beef.
12 Quinta da Aveleda 2005 Vinho Verde 89
Portugal, Vinho Verde / $8 White
One of the markers for Vinho Verde, this brand gets better and better. The 2005 is a new blend, with 10% of Alvarinho from the Aveleda estate. It is ripe and rich, with great solid full fruits in the mouth, tropical but with some citrus character. It‘s bone dry, with fine finishing acidity. Imported by Aveleda Imports.
13 Pine & Post 2004 Chardonnay 87
Washington, Columbia Valley / $5 White
Solid and clean, this well-made Chardonnay includes a generous (20%) proportion of Sémillon, which fleshes it out. The dominant flavors are tangerine and citrus, and the wine sets up crisply in the mouth without feeling stripped or sour in any way.
14 Masies D‘Avinyo 2003 Pla de Bages 91
Spain, Pla de Bages / $12 Red
A real surprise! Who in their right mind could expect so much quality from a Cab Franc-Tempranillo blend from Penedès? But try it and we guarantee you‘re going to like it. The nose is meaty, ripe and round, while the palate features pure core fruit backed by chocolaty warmth. With kick as well as subtlety, this is a bargain hunter‘s dream. Imported by Grapes of Spain.
15 J. & F. Lurton 2005 Les Fumées Blanches Sauvignon Blanc 89
France, Vin de Pays d‘Oc / $9 White
Grassy and herbaceous aromas give the varietal game away immediately. And the palate is equally ripe but herbaceous with fine intensity of flavor and richness. Is this France, or is this New Zealand? It‘s hard to tell, but it‘s enjoyable. Imported by Ex-Cellars Wine Agencies, Inc.
16 Torres 2005 Malena Garnacha 89
Spain, Catalunya / $10 Red
Purple in color, with a sweet, fragrant bouquet featuring mostly plum and strawberry but also a touch of rusticity. Bold and full of cherry-cola flavors, while the feel is downright plush and proper. A very nice (and new to the market) wine from Torres; and there‘s no knocking its value qualifications.
17 Domaine Saint Gayan 2004 Côtes-du-Rhône 90
France, Côtes-du-Rhône/ $12 Red
Jean Pierre and Martine Meffre are vignerons in Gigondas who trace their domaine‘s roots back to 1709, but make this great bargain from 50-year-old vines just outside the Gigondas appellation. The 2004 Saint- Gayan boasts scents of anise, black cherry and flowers on the nose, then follows that up with a lushly textured palate. Flavors of black cherries and spice add some meatier notes, then finish long and softly tannic. Drink now - 2012.
18 Feudo Arancio 2004 Nero d‘Avola 88
Italy, Sicilia / $8 Red
Bravo to Feudo Arancio for producing a Nero d‘Avola of this caliber at such an attractive price point. Its nose is rich with floral and rose-like notes backed by blueberry and vanilla. The structure is firm and the tannins give backbone. It‘s informal but refined at the same time. Imported by Prestige Wine Imports Corp.
19 Castellblanch NV Brut Zero Reserva 89
Spain, Cava / $10 Sparkling
This producer is doing a very good job with its superaffordable, no-dosage cava. The nose is lightly floral, with the accent on apple blossom. The palate is solid and crisp, with appropriate white-fruit flavors. Crisp on the finish, with a lively feel. A pleasurable sipper for sure.
20 Mitchell 2002 GSM 91
Australia, Clare Valley / $15 Red
A GSM, yes, but one with Sangiovese rather than Shiraz in that secondary position. It‘s dry grown, handpicked and unoaked, the Sangiovese bringing a pleasant tanginess to complement Grenache‘s juicy, black-cherry fruit. Medium-sized, and finishes with black pepper. Imported by Click Wine Group.
21 Covey Run 2004 Pinot Grigio 88
Washington, Columbia Valley / $7 White
This blows away everything in its price range. Plump flavors of pear, peach, citrus and green apple show persistence, grip and mouth-cleaning tartness.
22 Sogrape 2003 Herdade do Peso Vinha do Monte 89
Portugal, Alentejano / $9 Red
A smooth, elegant wine, with soft fruits which are overlain with dusty tannins. This is packed with ripe fruit, but also has structure, solid dry fruits and a layer of wood. A wine that impresses with its balance. Imported by Evaton, Inc.
23 Ca‘ del Solo 2004 Big House Pink 90
California, $10 Rosé
A Rhônish blend, with Barbera and Zinfandel, it showcases three of Randall Grahm‘s signatures, namely, it‘s refreshingly dry, invigorating in acids, and minerally-herbal-subtle in flavor instead of the intensely ripe fruit that usually marks California. This is a complex wine that will stand up to complex fare.
24 Viña Bisquertt 2004 Casa La Joya Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 89
Chile, Colchagua Valley / $9 Red
Lively, rich and complete. There‘s a lot of wine here for under $10, and the assumption in these parts is that it has everything the average consumer is looking for. Boysenberry, blackberry and cassis flavors are lively yet round, while the finish is saturated and thorough. A full-strength red at a great price. Imported by Prestige Wine Group.
25 Fabre Montmayou 2005 Malbec 89
Argentina, Luján de Cuyo / $10 Red
Always one of the best Malbecs for the money. This French-owned estate doesn‘t cut corners, so you get a serious red wine that‘s heady, vigorous and authentic. The color is perfect, the bouquet smoky and penetrating, and the taste of berry fruit, spicy wood and vanilla convincing.
26 Segura Viudas NV Extra Dry 89
Spain, Cava / $10 Sparkling
A gem in the semisweet category, with touches of melon and banana on the nose. The palate pours on the sweet apple cider and warm citrus, while the finish is on the mark. This is a generous, no-brainer of a bubbly: Just uncork, pour, sip and smile.
27 Brassfield 2005 High Serenity Ranch Sauvignon Blanc 91
California, High Valley / $15 White
This is America‘s answer to Marlborough, showing true Lake County terroir, with high acidity that gives a minerally, gunmetal lift to the ripe grapefruit, passion fruit, kiwi and lime flavors. Wonderfully good, and the low alcohol makes it easy to drink.
28 Latah Creek 2004 Johannisberg Riesling 90
Washington, Washington / $7 White
Very classy, and classic, WA Riesling, with just enough residual sugar to offset the zippy acids. Bright, fresh, crisp and clean, with a wash of honeyed sweetness underlying the ripe peaches and apple-flavored juice. Just a delightful bottle of Riesling.
29 Sobon Estate 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon 91
California, Amador County / $15 Red
There‘s beautiful blackberry and cassis fruit in this Cab, undergirded by a rich, coffee-infused earthiness. It‘s completely dry and the tannins are fairly fierce, but nothing a good steak can‘t negotiate. In fact, it‘s a great food wine, classy and understated. The best Sobon Cab ever and a great value.
30 Les Vignerons de Tavel 2005 Les Lauzeraies 90
France, Tavel / $13 Rosé
Tavel is one of France‘s best-known rosés, and the local co-op (Les Vignerons de Tavel) accounts for approximately 45 percent of the appellation‘s production. Thankfully, at least from the 2005 vintage, quality is high and prices reasonable. There are several cuvées bottled and marketed in the U.S., but one of my favorite 2005s was Les Lauzeraie, which boasts lots of mineral and crushed stone aromas. It‘s quite fruit-driven and rich on the palate, full of cherries and watermelon, while the silky texture gives ita slight edge over some of the other cuvées.
31 ElvenGlade 2004 Pinot Gris 91
Oregon, Yamhill County / $15 White
Round, ripe and polished. The pear and apple flavors are bright and sassy, lined with skin flavors, persistent and well defined. This wine is balanced, harmonious, penetrating and beautifully crafted. It‘s a template for all that is good about Oregon Pinot Gris.
32 Quinta de Cabriz 2003 Colheita Seleccionada 89
Portugal, Dão / $7 Red
This blend of Alfrochiero, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Nacional is a steal at the $7 price. The meaty, peppery, blackberry nose and bouncy, medium-weight palate makes this wine a ringer for a good Côtes-du-Rhône, at a fraction of the price. Even shows good length on the peppery finish. Drink now - 2008. Imported by Aidil Wines & Liquor Inc.
33 Novus 2005 Malbec 89
Argentina, Mendoza / $10 Red
A very nice wine given the price. The nose features a likable combination of dense berry and leathery spice, while the palate is juicy, ripe and full of black fruit. Not ultra complicated or complex; it‘s just pure, ripe Malbec in its most approachable form.
34 Bouza do Rei 2005 Albariño 91
Spain, Rias Baixas / $15 White
Plenty of white flowers and tropical-fruit aromas signal that this is special. The palate is full to the brim with pure flavors of melon, nectarine and green herbs, while the finish is exact. Drinking this baby is like taking a trip to the heart of Salnés.
35 Sierra Vista 2005 Fumé Blanc 90
California, Sierra Foothills / $13 White
Made Sancerre style, with no oak, this beautiful wine bursts with fresh citrus, honeydew, green grass, sweet pea and peppery spice flavors that stimulate the palate. It‘s so easy to drink, yet has the complexity to sustain interest. Try with raw shellfish or a salad of bitter greens, chevre, grapefruit and shrimp.
36 Canella NV Prosecco di Conegliano 89
Italy, Prosecco di Conegliano / $11 Sparkling
Floral, with dandelions, white rose and jasmine. There‘s also a bit of fruit in the form of white peach, honeydew melon and green apple. Tart, almost bitter, and very refreshing. Imported by Empson (USA) Ltd.
37 Los Vascos 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon 89
Chile Colchagua Valley / $11 Red
Wines like this helped Colchagua earn its Wine Region of the Year award for 2005. For not much cash you get a ripe, smoky Cabernet with black plum and cassis aromas as well as flavors of raspberry and cherry. Balanced and pure, with some vanilla and oak on the finish. Imported by Pasternak Wine Imports.
38 Vigne Regali 2003 L‘Ardi 88
Italy, Dolcetto d‘Acqui / $9 Red
A great bargain, this soft, supple Dolcetto is loaded with plum and berry fruit, backed by hints of apple blossom on the nose and tobacco on the palate. A bit drying on the finish, so drink it with rare beef or burgers to help bring that element into line. Imported by Banfi Vintners.
39 Snoqualmie 2004 Sauvignon Blanc 87
Washington, Columbia Valley / $7 White
Smooth and creamy, this pure-blooded Sauvignon Blanc is as light and clean as a spring breeze. Nicely ripened to flavors of fig and grapefruit, it adds accent notes of lemon rind and fresh herb.
40 E. Guigal 2005 Rosé 89
France, Côtes-du-Rhône / $12 Rosé
Guigal‘s 2005 rosé handily eclipses most other Côtes-du-Rhône rosés, boasting bold cherry fruit, hints of creamy chocolate and a rich, medium- to full-bodied mouthfeel. It‘s almost a light red wine in color and character, yet stays true to its rosé roots in its crisp, mouthwatering finish. Drink now.
41 Casa de Sezim 2005 Grande Escolha 89
Portugal, Vinho Verde / $8 White
This is serious Vinho Verde. It has all the fresh, crisp, acidic character but, because of the year, it is also full, ripe, with green apple skin flavors, green plums and intense fruit. Imported by RC Importers.
42 Simonnet-Febvre NV Crémant de Bourgogne 90
France, Crémant de Bourgogne / $13 Sparkling
This sparkling wine is the only one made in the Chablis region. That‘s a shame, because with its great toasty character, crisp yellow fruit flavors and its beautifully delicate mousse, there should be more like it in Chablis. Imported by Louis Latour Inc.
43 Concha y Toro 2004 Casillero del Diablo Carmenère 88
Chile, Central Valley / $9 Red
Concha y Toro is getting Carmenère right. This affordable red is full bodied, with a fair amount of oak and bacon smothering plum and berry aromas. On the whole it‘s round, juicy and fresh, with lively flavors and good feel. Imported by Banfi Vintners.
44 Castello del Poggio 2003 Dolcetto di Monferrato 89
Italy, Dolcetto di Monferrato / $12 Red
This appealingly tender Dolcetto boasts floral aromas backed by ripe plums and black cherries. Medium-bodied, it shows good length on the velvety-supple finish. Imported by Zonin USA.
45 Domaine des Bacchantes 2004 Côtes-du-Rhône 89
France, Côtes-du-Rhône / $12 Red
Another cuvée from the fine co-op at Estézargues, this blend of 70% Syrah and 30% Grenache boasts an impressive dark purple hue, bold, fruit-driven aromas and a full, rich mouthfeel. Flavors of ripe black cherries and plums finish long and mouthwatering, with velvety tannins. A barrel sample of the 2005 was also promising. A Jenny & François Selection, imported by USA Wine Imports.
46 Karly 2003 Pokerville Zinfandel 89
California, Amador County / $12 Red
I love this wine for its smooth, full-bodied exuberance, the way it just takes over the palate and rules. Flavors of wild berries, bitter dark chocolate and coffee are fat and fleshy, and best of all, totally dry, without being overly alcoholic. This is one of the best Zin buys of the year.
47 Villa Pillo 2003 Borgoforte 89
Italy, Toscana / $12 Red
Quite full and ripe, a sure reflection of a warm year. Dark berry and prune aromas start it off, followed by ripe, oozing, black-fruit flavors. Extracted but not overdone, with a touch of complexity and depth. A lot of wine for the money.
48 Alceño 2004 Syrah 90
Spain, Jumilla / $15 Red
Very colorful and properly ripe, with lush berry aromas backed by coffee notes. The palate is lush and balanced, with deep blueberry, black cherry and cola notes. A truly committed wine with a smooth, unctuous finish as the final chapter.
49 Allandale 2003 Chardonnay 90
Australia, Hunter Valley / $15 Red
Accented by new French and American oak, this is a rich Chardonnay. Aromas of nut and grilled meats are echoed on the palate, giving interest to pear and citrus zest notes underneath. Any more wood would be too much, but as it stands it‘s a harmonious, hedonistic white. Imported by Davies & Co.
50 Arbor Crest 2003 Merlot 90
Australia, Hunter Valley / $15 Red
This rich, ripe wine, sourced from top vineyards such as Klipsun, Stillwater Creek and Conner Lee, really knocks your socks off. The substantial blackberry and black cherry fruit carries unusual weight, and the tannins and barrel time give the wine layers of toast and smoke.
51 Castello d‘Alba 2005 Branco Reserva 90
Portugal, Douro / $12 White
The name sounds Italian, but this is made in Portugal‘s Douro Valley, up in the hills near the Spanish border. According to the importer, it‘s a blend of indigenous Códega, Viosinho and Rabigato grapes. Whatever it is, it shows skillfully managed barrel treatment in its lush, rich, creamy texture and vanilla notes, but those elements seamlessly blend with ripe citrus (think oranges or tangerines) and gingery spice. A long finish cements this wine‘s impressive quality.
52 MontGras 2004 Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 89
Chile, Colchagua Valley / $11 Red
This winery rarely fails with its basic Cabernet; in fact, it has establsihed the benchmark for South American value Cabs. The 2004 version is loaded with ripe berry flavors, a spot of earth and leather, and plenty of baking chocolate and tannin. Smooth and easy, but hearty and assured. Imported by Palm Bay Imports.
53 Bethel Heights 2004 Pinot Gris 90
Oregon $15 White
Full and spicy, this marries ripe, pear and mango-flavored fruit with spicy cinnamon and green tea. It‘s got the harmonious integration and lingering fruitiness that makes you want second and third glasses.
54 Cesari 2004 Due Torri Pinot Grigio 88
Itlay, Delle Venezie / $10 White
Roasted car-amelized almond, banana bread and candied fruit smells characterize a wine that is smooth, but tangy in the mouth, with good persistence.
55 Domaine le Colombier 2004 Vieilles Vignes 90
France, Vacqueyras / $15 Red
This impressive blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Syrah admirably showcases the attributes of Vacqueyras, featuring bold red-fruit scents accented by clove spice. It‘s creamy and full-bodied, with raspberry and strawberry fruit buttressed by firm tannins on the finish. Drink now - 2012.
56 Glorioso 2001 Reserva Tempranillo 90
Spain, Rioja / $15 Red
No complaints...just praise for this clean, easy red from a great vintage. The nose is crisp and fruity, with welcome citrus and wood notes. Blackberry mixed with vanilla and chocolate create a pleasant palate, while the finish is round and tinged by mocha.
57 Groote Post 2005 The Old Man‘s Blend 90
South Africa, Coastal Region / $15 White
The bouquet may take a while to come around, but when it does you‘ll know what you‘re in for. Strong tropical fruit aromas have a citrusy side, leading to a very tropical mouthfeel with a smooth, oaked feel and solid acidity. Its 60% Sauvignon Blanc offers grippy grass and grapefruit flavors, while 40% Chenin Blanc adds mango and nutty notes. Finishes with warm, spicy oak.
58 Högl 2003 Grüner Veltliner 88
Austria, Wachau / $10 White
This medium-bodied GV is a textbook example, boasting hints of white pepper and anise on the nose, followed by flavors of apples, pears and spice. Finishes on a minerally note, with an almost dusty quality. Imported by Winemonger.com.
59 Michel Torino 2003 Don David Malbec 90
Argentina, Cafayate / $15 Red
In recent years Michel Torino has been making better and better Malbec, and this vintage is the best we‘ve tasted. It offers sweet fruit and marzipan on the nose, while the big, chewy palate is lush and packed with berries, vanilla and chocolate nesting on pillowy tannins. Very chummy and almost lavish. Imported by Frederick Wildman & Sons, Ltd.
60 Mount Langi Ghiran 2003 Billi Billi Shiraz 90
Australia, Victoria / $12 Red
The 2003 Billi Billi Shiraz features slightly medicinal flavors of cherries and rhubarb accented by scorched chocolate notes and a hint of eucalyptus. The texture is creamy-smooth, while the finish lingers elegantly. It‘s a pleasant counterpoint to some of the heavyweight Shirazes from South Australia, at a bargain price.
61 Calina 2003 Reserva Chardonnay 88
Chile, Casablanca Valley / $9 White
Very good in the value vein, with light but balanced aromatics that show tropical fruit offset by honey and vanilla. The palate is ripe and on edge, with melon, pear and a hint of banana. Nice from start to finish. A very good buy. Imported by Sovereign Wine Imports.
62 DFJ Vinhos 2003 Grand‘Arte Touriga Nacional 90
Portugal, Estremadura / $15 Red
This powerful, dry wine shows all the density and structure of the Douro‘s most famous grape variety. Offers solid black fruit, followed through by intense acidity, and a satisfying black currant fruit taste. This is certainly the most impressive wine in this Grand‘Arte range. Imported by Grape Expectations (CA).
63 Domaine du Tariquet 2005 Les Premiéres Grives Gros Manseng 90
France, Vin de Pays des Côtes de Gascogne / $15 Dessert
Tariquet‘s answer to late harvest wines, this fine, ripe wine, with its layers of sweetness and intense acidity, would be a great accompaniment to pâté and terrines. Made from the south-west‘s Gros Manseng grape, which many locals claim is the unsung white grape of the future, this is a pure, fruity but complex wine. Imported by Baron Francois LTD.
64 Luigi Bosca 2004 Finca La Linda Tempranillo 88
Argentina, Mendoza / $10 Red
Among the small field that is Argentinean Tempranillo, this is a standout. The nose is full, meaty and ripe, with bacon in the mix. The palate is full-bore and delivers a blend of cherry, cola and coffee flavors. Big but balanced, and not to be confused with something Spanish.
65 Robertson Winery 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon 88
South Africa, Robertson / $10 Red
A lovely nose of cassis and herbal notes, with hints of eucalyptus and chocolate, leads into a dark palate with plenty of tannin, cassis and tobacco leaf. Should be drunk now, but has enough grace to last for the next few years. A bargain at this price. Imported by Indigo Wine Group.
66 San Pedro 2005 Castillo de Molina Reserva Shiraz 88
Chile, Lontué Valley / $10 Red
Sweet and rich, and in the long run it‘s nice for the money. There‘s some alluring fruit aromas that vie with more floral scents, and behind that is a palate of plum and dark berries. An easygoing but sturdy wine; it impresses with its big, broad shoulders and easy-to-like personality.
67 Veramonte 2004 Reserva Merlot 88
Chile, Casablanca Valley / $10 Red
Smooth and ripe, with as much gusto as one could expect from a $10 red. The nose is full of ripe berries and chocolate, while the juicy palate breathes black cherry, plum and a spot of raisin. Finishes nicely, with an emphasis on fudge and coffee.
68 Vinum Cellars 2004 White Elephant 90
California $15 White
This offbeat blend of Clarksburg-grown Chenin Blanc, Stolpman Vineyard Roussanne from Santa Ynez Valley, and Central Coast Viognier is remarkable. As you might expect, it‘s floral and fruity, but dry, with very high acidity and a modest 13.5% alcohol. It‘s a clean, food-friendly wine with a great degree of complexity.
69 Wieninger 2005 Nussberg Grüner Veltliner 90
Austria, Vienna / $15 White
From 30-year-old vines, this steely style of Grüner comes from the Nussberg vineyard in western Vienna, near the Vienna woods. It is fresh and concentrated, with flavors of quince and a backbone of mineral and pepper flavors.
70 Tolloy 2005 Pinot Grigio 88
Italy, Alto Adige / $10 White
Very compact and clean in its aromatic delivery with banana, Golden Delicious apple and attractive hints of toasted almond in the background. Creamy, smooth and supple in the mouth with a touch of zesty spice on the finish. Imported by Prestige Wine Imports Corp.
71 TerraNoble 2004 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 90
Chile, Colchagua Valley / $14 Red
This wine is the perfect model for midlevel Chilean Cabernet. It costs under $15 yet it overdelivers. The nose is firm and toasty, with serious berry and cassis aromas. In the mouth, it sings its way through wavy raspberry and vanilla flavors. Balanced and rich, with some creaminess and depth.
72 Eola Hills 2004 Pinot Gris 88
Oregon $10 White
This has a strong floral component, like body powder, but it is a substantial, meaty wine, with ripe pear and white peach flavors. Intense and focused in the midpalate, it gets a bit hot on the finish.
73 Trapiche 2004 Broquel Bonarda 90
Argentina, Mendoza / $15 Red
It‘s not often that Bonarda makes a point, but this new one from Trapiche‘s Broquel label is exemplary. The bouquet pumps out mint, tobacco, black cherry and toasted oak, while the blackberry-drenched palate is pure pleasure. With a steak, this is a sure bet. And it won‘t break the bank.
74 Weinrieder 2005 Schneiderberg Grüner Veltliner 90
Austria, Niederösterreich / $15 White
Weinrieder‘s hallmark purity of fruit is very evident with this wine‘s freshness and flavors of pears and green plums. It has good weight, great poise and a deliciously light aftertaste.
75 Arboleda 2005 Chardonnay 90
Chile, Casablanca Valley / $15 White
A big-time effort for Arboleda. The wine hits with copious but balanced wood, which creates a strong blast of popcorn on the nose. The mouthfeel is sturdy and intense, with nectarine, honey and toast flavors.
76 Calatrasi 2003 D‘Istinto Shiraz 89
Italy, Sicilia / $13 Red
This Shiraz has generous servings of berry fruit, leather and charred meat that appears spicy, long lasting and smoky in the mouth thanks to its medium structure and persistence.
77 Domaine Ferme Saint-Martin 2004 Les Terres Jaunes 89
France, Beaumes-de-Venise / $13 Red
What a lovely mélange of cherry and black pepper scents this wine offers. It‘s like the crushed fresh fruit has been macerated in a glass with several turns of the peppermill. Very supple, creamy and expansiive on the palate, but it remains focused and long on the finish, thanks to balanced acidity. Drink now.
78 J. Portugal Ramos 2005 Marquês de Borba 89
Portugal, Alentejo / $13 White
Deliciously spicy and citrusy, this blend of Arinto, Rabo de Ovelha and Roupiero is quickly becoming one of Portugal‘s go-to whites. Pepper and ginger notes lead the way, backed by fresh pineapple fruit. A slightly oily mouthfeel gives it some heft, but the finish is spice-driven and refreshing, not heavy. Drink now.
80 Bollini 2004 Pinot Grigio 89
Italy, Trentino / $13 White
A gorgeous and opulent nose with honey, vanilla bean, ripe pineapple and yellow roses. The mouth is unusually silky for the variety with baked apple and cinnamon over a medium finish. Imported by Kobrand.
80 Raats Family 2005 Original Chenin Blanc 89
South Africa $13 White
One of South Africa‘s best with Chenin, Bruwer Raats has hit another home run with this unwooded wine. It kicks off with perfumed citrus aromas, then lets fly with lively almond-tinged flavors of orange and peach. Vibrant in the mouth with beautifully matching acidity, this is a wine that calls for food, but can certainly be enjoyed alone.
81 Valdivieso 2003 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 88
Chile, Central Valley / $13 Red
Firm up front, with cherry and leather-based aromas. Full and fruity, with solid plum and blackberry flavors. Offers good depth, quality fruit and some chocolate on the finish. Well balanced; it‘s one of those classic, value-priced Chilean Cabernets. Imported by Laird & Company.
82 Susana Balbo 2005 Crios Malbec 90
Argentina, Mendoza / $15 Red
Subtle and smooth from start to finish. The aromas are sly but sturdy, with mocha and blackberry sticking out. The flavor profile is pure black fruit with underlayers of spice and chocolate. A ripe, really good example of approachable Malbec.
83 Mezzacorona 2004 Riserva Pinot Grigio 89
Italy, Trentino / $13 White
Partial barrique fermentation and barrel aging add dimension to this Pinot Grigio. Rich with flavors of toasted nuts, honey, banana bread, yellow rose and Golden Delicious apple. It‘s creamy and slightly sweet in the mouth backed by a long, crisp finish. Imported by Prestige Wine Imports Corp.
84 Viu Manent 2004 Estate Carmenère 87
Chile, Colchagua Valley/ $8 Red
Savory and a little leafy, but it blends the right amounts of salty olive and herbs with perky, red-fruit notes. Almost crisp on the palate, with fairly precise olive, plum and cherry flavors. Good and fresh; varietally correct. Imported by GWFC-Gourmet Wine & Food Co.
85 Brancott 2005 Sauvignon Blanc 88
New Zealand, Marlborough / $11 White
Brancott‘s best-ever regular SB bottling boasts grassy, sweet-pea aromas but also plenty of nectarine and floral notes. It‘s plump and fleshy on the palate, adding pink grapefruit and herbal notes to the mix, then finishing with hints of green pepper and honey. Imported by Pernod Ricard.
86 Castle Rock 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon 88
Washington, Columbia Valley / $11 Red
Though Castle Rock is a California winery, this is a Columbia Valley wine; they purchase the juice in Washington and bottle in California. Despite the generic feel to the package, this is the real deal: Smooth and appealing plum and pie cherry fruit is distinctly marked with cinnamon and light cocoa. Substantive and seamless, it carries well into a lingering finish of fine-grained tannins.
87 Nederburg 2003 Pinotage 88
South Africa, Western Cape / $11 Red
This ruby-red wine has a lot to offer. It offers vanilla, spice, Maraschino cherry and cola in the nose, while the palate is packed with more cherry, vanilla, a mild minerality and some lemon notes. It finishes smooth, with coffee and spice. Imported by Dreyfus, Ashby & Co.
88 Tenuta Sant‘Antonio 2004 Soave 88
Italy, Soave / $11 White
This plump, medium-bodied wine starts with hints of honey, mint and pears, then delivers well-ripened fruit flavors on the palate. Shows good concentration and length on the finish, picking up just enough spice and mineral nuances to retain interest throughout a meal.
89 Toscolo 2004 Chianti 88
Italy, Chianti / $11 Red
Always a solid value contender, Toscolo really nailed it in 2004. This wine is clean and ripe, with familiar raspberry and strawberry aromas. It‘s not heavy at all; in fact, it‘s light, bright and clear, with pure cherry and raspberry flavors that are sure to please. A pizza wine to the max.
90 Rotari 2001 Riserva 89
Italy, Trento / $13 Sparkling
Creamy and toasty in the mouth, with nice acidity to give it structure. A consistent sparkler with enough versatility to be consumed with a meal; not just for toasting. Imported by Prestige Wine Imports Corp.
91 Quadri 2005 Mátraalja Pinot Grigio 87
Italy, Trento / $8 White
Zippy and fresh, with floral aromas and beautifully underscored mineral notes that reinforce its overall snap and pop. More stone fruit and floral flavors in the mouth are accompanied by mouth-cleansing acidity. Imported by Banville & Jones Wine Merchants.
92 Quinta da Cortezia 2004 Vinha Conchas 87
Portugal, Estremadura / $8 Red
A great value in everyday table wine, Quinta da Cortezia‘s second label offers bright cherry fruit accented by just enough mineral and spice elements to keep you coming back for another sip. A slightly creamy texture is balanced by crisp acids on the finish. Drink now.
93 Delicato 2004 Pinot Grigio 86
California, California / $7 White
Bone dry and crisp, with fairly intense grapefruit and lime flavors, it‘s a nice sipper that shows some real complexity in the balanced and long finish.
94 Hedges 2004 CMS Red 88
Washington, Columbia Valley / $11 Red
Classic, rich and supple; this tastes like a far more expensive wine. It has a European polish, mixing plum, berry and cherry fruit with darker streaks of tar, coffee and smoke. The 13.5% alcohol is perfectly ripe and stylish, and the wine has good length, precision and complexity.
95 Dr. Fischer 2005 Classic Riesling 89
Germany, Mosel-Saar-Ruwer / $14 White
From the family‘s estate holdings in the Saar, this is a steely, minerally wine, but the ripeness of the vintage has given it a saber‘s heft rather than the more typical rapier-like weight. A bit austere, but long, dry and minerally on the finish.
96 Gallo Family Vineyards 2004 Reserve Zinfandel 88
California, Sonoma County / $13 Red
Perhaps because this is a new line and the Gallos are putting their best foot forward, this Zin is far richer than Gallo‘s Dancing Bull Zin, which is only a dollar less. It‘s lush in briary wild berry, cherry pie, blueberry, cocoa and coffee flavors, and nicely dry. Good enough to accompany your best Zin-friendly food.
97 Bolla 2004 Nero d‘Avola 87
Italy, Sicilia / $9 Red
This wine has sweet cherry flavors, accented with toast and bacon fat notes. Tannins are soft, and there‘s an herbal note on the finish. Bring on the pasta. Imported by Brown-Forman Corp.
98 MandraRossa 2004 Shiraz 87
Italy, Sicilia / $9 Red
This is one of those hammer-over-your-head reds that takes aromatic intensity to the stratosphere. Inky black in color with cracked white pepper, exotic spice, resin, crushed stone, cedar, cherry fruit marmalade; there are no subtle nuances here, only bold statements. Imported by Palm Bay Imports.
99 Querceto 2004 Chianti 87
Italy, Chianti / $8 Red
Lightweight but smooth, with open-knit aromas of red fruits. The palate shows more richness than you might expect, with black cherry and dark plums controlling the flavor profile. With meat on its bones and a persistent finish, this is bargain Chianti at its best.
100 Seidelberg 2004 Sauvignon Blanc 88
South Africa, Paarl / $12 White
With a golden hue and a fuller body than many other Sauvignon Blancs tasted from South Africa, this wine oozes mango and apple on the nose. It carries through with more apple and tropical fruit in the mouth and finish, and balancing acidity. Imported by 57 Main Street Wine Co.
