(96) Peter Michael Belle Cote Chardonnay 2010 (California). Sweet lemon and floral notes; intense flavors with hints of licorice and tropical flavors; luxurious and graceful in the mouth with a long finish. ($90)
(95) Knights Bridge Vineyards Knights Valley West Block Chardonnay 2010 (California). Golden yellow, with heavy legs; toasted bread with hints of sweet stone fruits, white peaches and citrus; pear cooked with vanilla hints; balanced acidity and long finish that lingers. ($66)
(95) Mark Ryan Dead Horse Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). Opaque purple color followed by a sweet, ripe nose of black currants, floral scents, licorice, and vanillin; exhibiting plenty of cassis fruit. ($50)
(95) Obelisco Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (Washington State). Grown on a small 30-acre vineyard in red granite; full-bodied and rich with a velvety mouth feel; dark cherry, raspberry, and ripe currant with a dusty and restrained tannins on the finish; beautiful. ($43)
(95) Artesa Artisan Series Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California). The nose and palate offer up plenty of bright black fruits, with edges of spice and oak. The tannins are well balanced with good acidity and plenty of fruit. ($46)
(95) Col Solare Columbia Valley Red Wine 2008 (Washington State). After nearly two years in the barrel, the tannins are soft and accessible; lots of black fruit on the nose and palate, make for a rich, full-bodied glass of superb red wine. ($75)
(95) Pedestal Columbia Valley Merlot 2009 (Washington State). This blockbuster merlot showcases the depth and complexity merlot can achieve in Washington State. Packed with black fruit, cocoa-powder accents and plenty of spice, there’s nice lift and a juicy berry quality on the finish. ($60)
(95) Rutherford Hill Barrel Select Red Blend 2008 (California). Beautifully structured with an intense floral bouquet and lush black fruit flavors. Aging for 21 months in French barriques adds silky tannins for perfect balance. ($30)
(95) Frog’s Leap Merlot 2010 (California). Sustainable farming reveals a very rich merlot; flavors of chocolate and blueberries with balanced acidity; delicious. ($40)
(95) Laurent Barth Gewurztraminer Vieilles Vignes 2010 (Alsace). An elegant, dry style with fragrances and flavors of apricot, coriander, and clove; served lightly chilled, it will complement many culinary delights. ($29)
(95) The Calling Rio Lago Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). A delicious, well-crafted cabernet; full bodied, with a deep burgundy color; soft tannins and a velvety texture; ripe raspberry and cherry on the palate with a long finish. ($39)
(95) Sonoma Coast Vineyards SVC Freestone Hills Pinot Noir 2010 (California). Fresh cherry and raspberry nose; soft on the palate finishing with perfect balance of tannins and bright acidity. ($49)
(95) Tres Sabors Sauvignon Blanc 2011 (California). Single-vineyard sourced from the Farina hillside property on Sonoma Mt., a beautiful, aromatic wine with hints of grapefruit, lime and tangerines; rich minerality. ($40)
(95) Gysler Scheurebe Halbtrocken 2011 Rheinhessen (Germany). Scheurebe yields wines that display hints of apricot, nectarine, and citrus. Gysler’s is richly fragrant and flavorful and not-quite dry. ($17)
(95) St. Supery Rosé 2012 (California). Eye-catching, rich red color with an elegant pomegranate, fresh strawberry aroma. Light, bright and crisp! Cab, merlot, petit verdot and cab franc make this light rosé crisp, dry and nuanced. ($19)
(94) Domaine de L’orme Saint Pourcain Les Grands Vaux Blanc 2011 (France). A lovely white wine that has a spicy, floral bouquet with hints of jasmine and citrus on the palate and a slight minerality on the finish. A great aperitif or pairs well with mild Asian dishes. ($17)
(94) Domaine Jolly Chablis 2010 (France). Classic Chablis with aromas and flavors of fresh green apple and not-quite-ripe pear combined with a rich yet not buttery mouth feel; on the finish, that unique and wonderful minerality found only in Chablis lingers; great with lobster. ($25)
(94) Morgan Metallico Un-oaked Chardonnay 2011 (California). A lovely bouquet of underripe tropical fruit and wildflower leads to a palate of pear, peach, and citrus with a hint of minerality reminiscent of a good Chablis; dry, crisp and racy on the finish with great length. ($24)
(94) Arger-Martucci The Odyssey Red Blend 2007 (California). This is a cabernet franc-based blend, so expect wonderful aromas with blackberry, cherry and currant fruits; an easy wine to drink. ($48)
(94) Catena Lunlunta Vineyard Malbec 2011 (Argentina). A gorgeous floral bouquet with ripe pomegranate and wild strawberry is complemented by earthy red fruit and spice notes on the palate. Great structure and texture, complete with a long finish. ($25)
(94) Weingut Setzer Gruner Veltliner Hohenwarth Weinviertel 2012 (Austria). Crisp, refreshing, and not-quite dry with zesty acidity in the finish. Will pair beautifully with a wide array of cuisine. ($18)
(94) Dr. Hermann “H” Riesling Mosel 2011 (Germany). Lush, sweet fruit aromas and flavors lead to a crisp, racy finish; the sweetness, balanced by the acidity, is simply delectable.With a hint of the Mosel’s slate, it’s a classic style that’s perfect for holiday festivities. ($17)
(94) Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). The wine reflects the 2010 vintage, showing lots of dark fruit on the nose, and a richness on the palate; the fruit is balanced by spice, texture and acid; a fair price for an outstanding wine. ($28)
(94) Tamarack Cellars Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (Washington State). Another wonderful cabernet out of Columbia Valley; medium to full bodied with energetic acidity; a beauty. ($35)
(94) La Storia by Trentadue Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (California). Aged for 16 months in several types of European oak barrels, which lends an “Old World” nuance to the wine. But the rich floral aromas and ripe, mouth-filling black fruit flavors are all Alexander Valley—stunning. ($25)
(94) J. Lohr 7 Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). Rich and dense, with soft tannins; coffee and hazelnut, with a hint of bittersweet chocolate; for the cab lover; dessert in a glass. ($20)
(94) Calluna Vineyards Calluna Estate Chalk Hill Red 2009 (California). Classic Left Bank style with the emphasis on cabernet sauvignon (40%), with elements of merlot, cab franc, malbec, and petite verdot blended in. Intense fruit, very balanced, tight core of cedar and dried fruit with heavy minerality. ($70)
(94) Atamisque Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (Argentina). Bright, jammy fruits with hints of pepper on the nose; full bodied with robust flavors of red fruits, spice, coffee and vanilla. ($27)
(94) McPherson Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (Texas). Aged 18 months in French oak, it is fruit-forward in style with subtle touches of cassis and black fruit; this wine will change the way you look at Texas wine. ($30)
(94) Oakville East “Exposure” Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California). An explosive wine yet remains graceful and sensuous. Black cherry, plum, tobacco and mocha dance beautifully in the bouquet and on the palate, with layer upon layer slowly revealed. ($60)
(93) Daou Chardonnay 2010 (California). If you insist on chardonnay with your turkey dinner, here it is: no noticeable oak or malalactic; instead, you will find apples and a hint of pineapple sprinkled with a dash of nutmeg. ($40)
(93) Chateau Ste Michelle Cold Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (Washington State). Deep and rich fruit and amazing balance; many intricate layers of berry fruit and cassis with a touch of cocoa. ($28)
(93) Perseverance Sonoma County Monte Rosso Vineyard Zinfandel 2008 (California). Incredibly complex in the bouquet and on the palate, with black pepper notes tinting blackberry compote, spicy briar notes and earthy undertones; bold and intense, yet beautifully balanced, and the finish displays vanilla and caramel. ($25)
(93) Black Coyote Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California). Pure Napa Valley, with sweet blackberries, leather, and spicy cedar; offering impressive concentration and supple tannins; outstandingly long finish that is further laden with flavors of tobacco and nutmeg. ($85)
(93) Tyrus Evan Ciel du Cheval Red Mountain Claret 2011 (Washington State). Full bodied and luscious, but with a backbone of tannins that, though firm, remain quite smooth; light tints of cocoa and earth linger on the edges while ripe and juicy black cherry, currant, cassis and blueberry roll across the palate. ($40)
(93) Embem Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). The nose and palate both possess plenty of ripe, dark fruit, with hints of spice and hints of brown sugar; vibrant and young, now, it will also benefit from time in the cellar. ($35)
(93) William Hill Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). The lovely acidity keeps the rich red and black fruits in balance; the tannins are very well integrated, providing texture and structure; exceptionally easy to enjoy now, it will also benefit from cellaring. ($35)
(93) Hess Collection Mt. Veeder Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California). This cabernet possesses lots of black, rich, and spicy fruit, on the nose and palate; the finish is seamless, elegant, and extended; superb, and balanced, across the board. ($55)
(93) Beaulieu Vineyards Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California). Classic Rutherford dust; dark cherry and cocoa notes lead into great earthiness and big tannins; pair with grilled meats. ($27)
(93) Stuhlmuller Vineyards Alexander Valley Estate Chardonnay 2010 (California). Lovely citrus and lemon custard aromas; flavors of pineapple, pear, orange and apple are revealed on the palate; long subtle finish from the French oak and sur lie aging process. ($30)
(93) Joseph Drouhin Drouhin-Vaudon Chablis Premier Cru 2010 (France). Plenty of white peach, with notes of grapefruit and orange blossom on the nose; on the palate the refinement and elegance reveal layers of flavors and an evolving texture. ($39)
(93) Domaine Saumaize Michelin Pouilly-Fuissé 2010 (France). Beautiful, aromatic nose full of flowers and stone fruits; the palate is rich and creamy without being overpowered by oak; energetic acidity from start to finish making it a wonderful food wine. ($30)
(93) Newton Red Label Chardonnay 2009 (California). Rich mouth feel gives way to peaches, lemon curd, and pineapple as the toasted oak and cream notes delight the senses. ($22)
(93) Dutton Estate Russian River Chardonnay 2010 (California). Tropical nose and flavors lead to an elegant, smooth and lingering finish. ($30)
(93) J. Lohr Arroyo Vista Monterey Chardonnay 2011 (California). Hand-harvested at night, the rich fruit provides an elegant, almost Burgundian structure; ripe pear and apple, roasted nuts and butterscotch, and hints of vanilla. ($28)
(93) Girard Russian River Sonoma Chardonnay 2010 (California). Sourcing primarily from the famed Dutton Ranch, this wine offers up hints of orange blossoms, honey and lemon curd on the nose, with bright acid and oak and vanilla on its rich, long finish. ($33)
(93) Fritz Russian River Valley Chardonnay 2010 (California). Nice bright acidity, yet creamy on the palate; ripe flavors of tropical fruits; pineapples, mangoes and melons; layers of baked pastries and toasted nuts make this truly interesting. ($30)
(93) VGS/Chat.Potelle Napa Chardonnay 2010 (California). Beautiful collaboration of classical French techniques blended with rich hillside mountain fruit; natural yeasts, unfiltered, minimal oak aging create a rich opulent wine; initial hints of green apple and lemon lead to deeper flavors of melons, pineapples and white pears. ($58)
(93) Silver Stag Napa Chardonnay 2010 (California). Beautiful jasmine aromas lead into hints of apple, melon, lemon, and caramel; rich and full-bodied. ($57)
(93) Alexander Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (California). Blended with small amounts of merlot, cabernet franc, malbec, and petit verdot, barrel-aged for 14 months; robust with ripe black fruit and hints of coffee, mocha; supple tannins. ($20)
(93) Worthy Sophie’s Cuvee Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (California). Dark fruit and earth on the nose, chewy mouth feel full of black cherry, currant and licorice sliding into perfectly integrated tannins through the mid palate and finish. Unfiltered. ($29)
(93) The Calling Rio Lago Vineyard Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). Full bodied; deep burgundy color; black cherry, and vanilla aromas; ripe raspberry and cherry on the palate; well balanced acidity with a lingering finish. ($38)
(93) Tuck Beckstoffer ’75 Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). A complex wine with refined tannins, layers of fruit and a depth not often seen in this price point; the controlled cassis, plum and cherry flavors are surrounded with blackberry and a silky finish. ($21)
(93) Novelty Hill Columbia Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (Washington State). Deep rich black fruit is concentrated in the mid-palate with a smooth lingering finish. ($43)
(93) Parducci True Grit Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). Cherry, vanilla, and cassis aromas lead to a smooth lingering finish; perfect with a ribeye. ($26)
(93) Fiddletown Old Vine Zinfandel 2010 (California). A harmonious blend from five different vineyards; aged 16 months, with rich raspberry, blackberry and plum flavors; pair with barbeque and brisket. ($19)
(93) A to Z Rosé 2012 (Oregon). Awesome rosé of sangiovese—bright, clean, fresh—loaded with wild strawberry aroma and fruit. Great with grilled salmon, smoked ham. ($13)
(93) Charles Krug Napa Valley Merlot 2010 (California). A serious merlot aged in 20 months of French oak; rich, intense and polished with blueberry, blackberry, black cherry and mocha flavors that come together perfectly giving way to a 20-second long finish showing undertones of vanilla and cedar. ($20)
(93) Brian Carter Le Coursier 2008 (Washington State). Exceptionally well balanced, with firm, but ripe tannins, a crisp and refreshing acidity, and lovely flavors that run the gamut from darker black fruits to ripe red berries interwoven with subtle notes of cedar and vanilla. ($33)
(93) Cheslea Goldschmidt Alexander Valley Merlot 2011 (California). The 100% merlot is impressive; bright cherry fruit, herbs and zesty spice. Balanced with a seamless texture; excellent food wine. ($18)
(93) Line 39 Central Coast Merlot 2011 (California). Soft and ripe on the nose and palate with hints of blueberry, black cherry, and plum; a bit of coffee/mocha balances with supple tannins on the finish; lovely and easy-to-enjoy, it’s also an excellent value. ($12)
(93) Chateau Barrail Chevrol Fronsac Bordeaux 2010 (France). Made from 80% merlot, 15% cabernet franc, 5% cabernet sauvignon in a very classic and classy style; aromas of wildflower, blackberry, and “La Garrigue” lead to rich flavors of cassis and other black fruits with nuances of Fronsac’s earthiness. ($14)
(92) B.R. Cohn “Silver Label” Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California). A lot of cherry and tobacco with great fruit for the fruit-forward cabernet drinkers and great structure for the big cabernet drinkers. ($19)
(92) Long Shadows Poet’s Leap Riesling 2011 (Washington State). This is a fresh, vibrant riesling with white peach flavors and a bright acidity; the finish is long and lively with a solid brace of minerality. ($22)
(92) Belle Glos Meiomi Pinot Noir 2011 (California). Bright Bing cherry, with hints of cedar and tobacco flesh out the outstanding pinot noir; a fine balance between savory and acidity makes for a dynamic sipping experience. ($20)
(92) Oberon Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California). Quite complex for a wine of this price; integrated oak but not too much; big cherry/currant fruit balanced aga