Wine Spectator 92 - SMART BUY: 'Sleek and full of tension, this red offers medium-bodied black cherry, espresso and dill accents as it builds toward fine-grained tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2031. $24.'

Dark ruby. Full of good 2021 fruit qualities. Coastal and quite sophisticated as usual. Plays well above its class. Even more variegated on the palate, in both flavor and texture. One of the best values in CA reds. Acid to balance fruit sweetness. Yes. 91/100.

With 9% petit verdot, cab franc. 60% Lake and 40% Mendocino counties. Aged 10 months in American and French oak cooperage. Dark red violet. Handsome rep of North Coast cabernet. Dark Mendocino notions, smooth Lake elements. I love this Broadbent conception. Bright and juicy fruit of high 2023 class and character. No wonder the growers are so keen on this vintage. Exceptional fruit acidity. Over achiever. Is the price for real? 92/100.

Aged 18 months in barrels, 10% new. Intense and accurate black cherry merlot with barrel tempering, mellowing. Big burst of varietal flavor. Fine acid/sweet fruit balance. Sits right. Always a winner. It's a shame folks poo-poo merlot. Shows the way in reasonably priced WA merlot. 92/100.

Negrette, cabernet pfeffer, albarino, zinfandel. Wow, look at that wild card white grape! Certainly doesn't diminish the color, which is the darkest of the set. Maybe, like a little viognier in syrah, it's a catalyst that extracts more peels coloring matter. Negrette takes the lead here, and one intense negrette it is. Flavor wise too. Its teammates stay on the sidelines. This is a prominent negrette player on the world stage. 93/100.

Jolly color. Close knit house style. 2022 and 2+ years' aging has opened it up some. Quality original fruit evident. flavors of tart cherry, spices, cola. 2022 relative richness. Has some glycerol. Great acid, form, reserve, future. 92+/100.

Bigger, stronger, deeper, with Oregon pinot black cherry character. Yes. Dark, ventilating aromas. Really complex flavor range. Serious, long, age worthy. Yes indeed; stands alone. WOTN candidate. Orders taken. 94+/100.

Always an inviting, elegant, fruit driven OR pinot of just the right regional weight and style. In fact, the whole range is consistently appealing to me, both red and white. Well, that just hits my sweet spot. The sweet/acid/tannin balance--it all hangs together so well. Wants food and will serve with great facility over a wide range of furry, feathered, and finny friends. 93/100.

Wine Enthusiast 93 - BEST BUY; 'Fresh and lively this wine boasts aromas of dark raspberry, plum, coriander and dried potpourri followed by notes of toasted vanilla. Strawberry and cranberry coulis lead on the palate and are accented by subtler flavors of blood orange peel, dried sage and chocolate, leading to a dry supple finish. Pair with roasted duck breast.'

Native yeasts. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 25% new. This is firm figured. Special RRV pinot class in full display. More fruit ease on the palate, while maintaining form and depth. Again, the special RRV potpourri complex. Perfect harmony of fruit sweetness, acidity, and fine tannin. Primo. 94/100.

Native yeasts. Aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. Darker, deeper, firmer. Serious ambitions. Yes, larger, with more aging potential. The oak is well absorbed. A shame to serve now, which is not often said about two year old CA pinots. 93+/100.

Native yeasts. Aged in French oak barrels, 50% new. Firmer still. And seemingly more powerful. These are singularly age-worthy pinots of RRV style and breeding. Here the new oak has its greatest impact, yet it's not excessive, just promising of great age potential. Great set. 94+/100.

Tasting Panel 93: 'This savory Pinot Noir was aged nine months in French oak. Wild strawberry, Luxardo cherry, and cola merge with prized flavors of sweet tobacco and red licorice in conjunction with searing acidity.'

Wine Enthusiast 93 - BEST BUY: 'This is always a fun wine, but this potentially landmark vintage amplifies the freshness that's inherent to the bottling. Aromas of cherry, blueberry and wet clay lead from the nose to the tense and direct palate, where raspberry, pepper and a firm tension entertain the mouth endlessly.'

Wine Enthusiast 93 - BEST BUY: 'This wine is lively, bright, with aromas of blackberry, cassis, clove, maple, toasty vanilla, and violets on the nose. The flavors on the palate are Black plum, red currant, Pink peppercorn, clove, orange zest, bittersweet chocolate, and silky tannins to finish. Decant and Enjoy with Grilled Lamb Sirloin.'

Tasting Panel 94: 'Dark chocolate, espresso, black olive, new leather, and soy sauce demand attention as dried violets line the palate with dusky, well-structured precision.'

Located in Napa Valley; winemaker Larry Levin, who made wine at Dry Creek Vineyard for 17 years; aged in seasoned French oak cooperage. Pretty heavy for a screwcap bottle. Medium dark ruby. Very intriguing bramble, briar, and mixed peppercorns aroma. It has lift, especially for its alcohol content. Decidedly racy and coastal. I liked earlier vintages but haven't tasted this for awhile. Sweetly flowing over the tongue. Flavorful. Well assembled from several regions likely. A best kept secret. 91/100. Surprised even the Europhiles; orders taken.

Wine Spectator 94: 'Potent but polished, with deep flavors of raspberry and red currant laced with briar patch, pepper and licorice as this gathers tension toward medium-grained tannins. Drink now through 2035.'

Wine Enthusiast 94 - BEST BUY: 'This wine is fresh and vibrant, with aromas of dark cherry, raspberry, clove, black tea, violet and notes of toasted vanilla. The flavors on the palate are red currant, strawberry and blood orange zest, that get layered with peach, allspice and key lime vanilla cream, all leading to a supple dry jammy finish. Pair with smoked brisket, BBQ sauce, coleslaw, porterhouse rolls.

Wine Enthusiast 93 - BEST BUY: 'This wine is fresh, bright, with aromas of mandarin orange, pink grapefruit, guava, and notes of dried fennel on the nose. The flavors on the palate are white peach, br?l饠orange zest, intertwined with clove, dried bay leaf, and a dry supple finish. pair with warm fava beans, chive citrus oil, shaved fennel, fresh herbs. $16.'

Tasting Panel 93: 'A wine of elegance, this bristles with cool sophistication. Its full-bodied mouthfeel shows taut precision even as its flavors build to a lively richness.'

Wine Enthusiast 93 - BEST BUY: 'This wine is crisp, lively, with aromas of Yellow apple, nectarine, lemongrass, and notes of orange blossom honey on the nose. The flavors on the palate are Satsuma orange, apricot, cinnamon, mineral, and a supple finish. Pair with Roasted Halibut.'

Tasting Panel 94: 'Stunning aromatics and flavors of lime-vanilla cream pie, peach, and gardenia are opulent yet graceful Well-orchestrated acidity lifts every note as they collectively express a measured cadence of florals and fruit.$38.' Unoaked.

Wine Enthusiast 91 - BEST BUY: 'This wine is crisp, bright, with aromas of Green apple, peach, baked pear, allspice, and notes of toasted vanilla on the nose. The flavors on the palate are Golden Delicious apple, banana chips, layered with mineral, and a long dry finish.'

Est. 1993; produced in 2020 the first American wine certified Natural Path Production. Good, straight down the middle OR pinot gris pear and paraffin aroma. A steady, reliable source for laid back, food worthy wines. Abundant pear flavor on the palate. Good, fresh fruit acidity. Never flashy, so versatile at the table. 91/100. Popular with attendees. 'Very attractive nose and palate.' 'Real terroir, not a Euro knockoff.' 'Pear and pastry cream nose.' 'Better acidity than many Euro offerings.' White WOTN.

From three sites on volcanic soil. No malo. Nice and crisp and precise riesling lemon-lime aromas. Green apple malic acid flavor. Great acidity-fully charged electric acidity. Age worthy too. A proven winner over many vintages. White WOTN candidate. Orders taken. 92/100.

This is dense and significant in malbec black cherry character as well as wood spices. I've always been an admirer of this wine, and the current vintage prolongs the love affair. Yes, has it all: body, balance, complexity, texture, flavor, depth. This is what Mendoza malbec is about. So many fail to impress. Comes at a price, but worth it. 96/100.

Wine Spectator 93 - SMART BUY: 'A vibrant white, with an intense, fragrant and mouthwatering mix of Key lime, passion fruit and grilled pineapple flavors, accented by hints of lemon verbena, lemongrass and freshly grated ginger, plus a note of crunchy sea salt that lingers on the sleek frame. $20.'

Wine Enthusiast 91 - BEST BUY: 'Bright, plump red berry fruit, savory spice, floral soap and vanillin oak aromas are succeeded by a palate that's medium-bodied with a tight tug of spicy tannins and lifted acidity. Drink now and over the next few years.'

Wine Enthusiast 93: 'Plump melon, kiwi and citrus aromas are cushioned by more lactic and saline nuances. Vibrant acidity rides a slippery textured wave, the toast elements in its wake. Balanced with length and poise, this is approachable now but could age for several more years. $24.'

Est. 1993; from decomposed granite on the slopes of the Helderberg; no vine age info available; apparently barrel aged. I have photographic memory of a lot of wines. The last time I tasted this was at a trade tasting at Corman Farms on a hot fall afternoon many moons ago, made even hotter under a plastic canopy. Loved it. The sample is colder now, of course, and aromatically less forthcoming. But just as old vines sizeable. Ample in the mouth too, with fruit forgiveness as well as old vines extract. Champion Cape chenin, I'd say. Goes on and on. 92/100.

In Ordonnac; 35 year old vines; 50% cab sauv, 45% merlot, 5% cab franc, petit verdot; aged a year in barrels. A stout and forthright Medoc, quite powerful. Dark, solid, and well framed for 2018, but not without the vintage's lush fruit attributes. Equally dusky and well structured on the palate. Still considerable tannin to shed. This has a lot of material to it for the price. it seems to be abnormally cabernet dominant for the AOC. 91+/100.

Proprietor Antoine de Roquefeuil; in the family since the Revolution; on the left bank of the Garonne next to the Graves AOC. Seems to incorporate both merlot sweet cherry (the cherry theme continues) and the cabernets' blackberry and black raspberry. Quite a substantial nose, closer to 14% than 11%. I'd guess 13.5. Saucy palate replete with all aromatic impressions learned on the nose. Firm, yet to develop flavor core, though no tannic resistance. With food now, or to the cellar 1-2 years. Pretty classic to 2020 claret. 91+/100. Generally well received. All agreed it would improve with more bottle age. 'Black cherry, pepper, black olive.' 'Good overall fruit quality.' 'Certainly worth the tariff.'

Proprietor Antoine de Roquefeuil; in the family since the Revolution; on the left bank of the Garonne next to the Graves AOC; 75% sauvignon blanc, 25% semillon. That's plenty pungent and racy for Bordeaux sauvignon fruit. There's a good dose of semillon filling and padding too. Well crafted. Indeed, lots of sauvignon gooseberry and passion fruit for Bordeaux blanc and certainly the mouthfilling, textural roles that semillon plays. Ideal composition and balance. Bravo! 92/100. Well liked by attendees. 'Very sauvignon nose; typical of type.' 'Grass and gooseberry sauvignon; semillon weight.' 'Refreshing, attractive; wine of place.'

Famille Duffour. Est. 1955. 80% colombard, 20% gros manseng. Tangy, limey colombard green fruit. Soft padding of gros manseng in support. Very vigorous lime flavor and crisp acidity. Yes, the softer lemon chiffon of gros manseng is a wonderful and complexing complement. Best vintage of this I've tasted. Great concept and execution. 92/100. Enjoyed by attendees. Colombard grass and lime noted. 'Good clean acidity; fresh and easy.'

Dark and bright maroon. Full as well as beautiful. Always pretty but never before quite so abundant. Yes. Simply delicious sweet, flowing, flavorful, well textured palate experience. Always a favorite, I've never loved it more than this 2023. Balance and length to boot. 92/100.

45 year old vines; aged on lees 11 months; 2% RS. The RS is clear by the nose. The aromas are subtle and may be coated. Yeah, this is the sweet, silent type at this stage. Acid coated too. Earlier vintages were more expressive. Perhaps they were tasted when more along. I have faith. 91+100. General agreement that this needs more bottle age, and, with that in mind, appreciated by attendees for its quality and potential.

Good a ripe northern pinot in 2023. Accurate sweet cherry nose. Good Loire acid. Accurate and full enough flavors. Actually, some tannin to resolve, though it will work with food now. Deal. 91/100.

A fresh and lithe take on Touraine sauvignon in the 2023 vernacular. Dazzling citrus cut with soft tropical fruit padding. That 2023 plump/acid balance. Thoroughly delicious right through the finish. 91/100.

Fourth generation estate with 94 acres of vines spread over 80 plots. Well, that's Menetou. Lime as well as lemon. Plus body and aromatic push. And the minerally terroir basis that is Menetou. Best and most explicit I've tasted in quite awhile. Spells it out. Say, looks like 2024 is an exciting vintage in these parts. And the wines are already accomplished and ready for the table. 92/100.

From selected parcels on south facing slopes in Verdigny. Well, that's large in the nostrils, reserve size indeed. Penetrating, persistent..even INSISTENT. Yes, full bodied, weighty, full textured. With more fruit richness than the fine 2022. A logical successor. What a satisfying mouthful, flavor and texture wise! 93/100. Attendees liked this a lot. 'Very sauvignon nose; terroir driven.' 'Fine bouquet; great weight; grip, extract.' 'Ventilating.'

Five generation domaine at Loges; small stones over limestone and clay; 30 year old vines. Natural yeasts. 5 months on barrel lees. Distinctly traditional Pouilly Fume all the way. Full contrast from Sancerre terroirs. Large, serious, deep, reserved. More flavor than aroma at this stage. Still, it speaks more of significance and potential than of present generosity. Balanced and lengthy. One of the best vintages of this. Worth keeping mid term. 93+/100. Favorable attendee comments as the nose became more revealing after breathing. The 'peach' signature of Pouilly Fume emerged with aeration.

Est. 1831; vines 25-30 years old in calcareous clay; aged a year, 20% in barrels. Medium ruby. Real and really quite crisp. Reads cool origins and/or vintage. Barrel time adds suavity. This is very engaging and surprisingly good for the price. Rich pinot palate. Abundant in both aroma and flavor. Well balanced. NOT modern. Great acid. Bravo! 92+/100. Well liked by attendees and considered a good value. 'Real Burgundian nose.' 'Crisp, northern like nose.' 'Subtle barrel influence.' 'Good acidity.' 'Will improve.'

Est. 1946 at Saint Aubin; vineyard on limestone, planted 1972, 1980; grapes destemmed; fermented and aged in barrels (30-40% new) 12-18 months; unfiltered. Well, now we have some serious pinot noir. The fruit material is up to the barrel challenge. One big-time Cote de Beaune from a sleeper AOC. Great acid for 2022. This has it all: fruit sweetness, extract, acid, and the finest grained of tannins. Total picture for the cellar. Long aftertaste. 94+/100. Consensus WOTN. 'Silky!' 'Very subtle and classy.' 'Shows its terroir and superb winemaking.' 'Light tannin, so will develop.' 'Lovely, approachable pinot.' 'Excellent structure, length, quality fruit.'

There it is; that damson plum character I find unique to Julienas among the Grand Cru villages. Sweet, round, 2022 becoming. Good acid for balance. No need to postpone gratification. 92/100.

Wine Spectator 93: 'This wine has a beguiling, herbal edge led by dried field grass and Darjeeling tea aromas along with violet blossom and plump red plum. Muddled black plum and black cherry arrive on the attack followed by flavors of dried olive branch and hibiscus. Pair with herb-led dishes, grilled steak, chicken paillard and lamb chops.

Est. 2013 at Prehy, 4 miles southwest of Chablis; 40-45 year old vines; native yeasts; aged 10 months on lees in vats. Celine et Frederic. New to market. Pungent, up front 2022 fruit that stays within bounds of the Chablis vernacular for its good, cool limestone basis. Works for me. Less flavor than aroma at this stage. The acid is 2022 soft yet adequate. A pleasing Chablis for the money. 92+/100.Attendees liked this for the price too. 'Very nice wine, clean and well made; long finish.'

Est. 1931 by 98 winegrowers of Buxy and Saint Gengoux le National. This has positive oaky overtones. As well as the sappy Chalon chardonnay resinous basis. Damn good vintage of this. Yes, oak and resin add to the texture as well as flavor. Unbeatable white burgundy deal. Buxy is quite the find. Consistent bargains across the range. 92/100.

70% chardonnay, 30% savagnin. Aged 2 years without topping up. Then 6 months in French oak. Deep color of age and savagnin component. This is correct. Shades of fino sherry. Very dry nose. Again, the fino resemblance. For what it's worth. 91/100.

All savagnin. Topped up. Then aged a year in French oak. Deeper color of all savagnin. I like this better. The year less in barrel and the absence of faster oxidizing chardonnay leaves this a better signature of Jura. More terroir, less manipulation. Yes, varietal character as well as fino relationships. This is more than correct. This is Jura savagnin. 93/100.

20 year old vines. Aged without topping 3-4 years under a yeast veil like fino sherry followed by 3 years in cooperage. The fruit fly voted for this one. Some say that spoils a wine, but I've never observed it. Of the three, this is the most intense in process character. Yes, fino notions, but much fuller on the nose than even an aged fino. It's on the palate where I can detect the lower alcohol level than the average 14% fino. The flavor set is tweaked different too. Seems a definition of its genre. Sommeliers will delight in finding food pairings. 94/100.

All jacquere; est. 1950s; vines 70-75 years old. This too has lower key aromatics than it probably did a year or two back. Maintains racy appeal and foodworthiness thanks to that great 2021 acidity. Well, more varietal flavor than aroma, and nice fruit sweetness to complement the acidity. Honestly, this has full appeal at this stage, flavor-, texture-, and balance-wise. 91/100. Liked by attendees. 'Mineral driven, and still fresh.'

Vines planted between 1995 and 2007 on the granite plateau above Saint Joseph AOC; aged six months in seasoned demi muids. Heavy Bottle Award. A very pure and lovely northern Rhone syrah with a combo of St. Joe elegance and Cote Rotie grandeur. Wow; well done. Both rich and racy. Yeah, for a plateau versus slope northern Rhone, this is pretty serious stuff. Once again, no tannin issues but more complexity to come if cellared. 93+/100. Widely enjoyed by attendees. 'The nose couldn't be anything but northern Rhone Syrah. All the elements are here: floral notes, richness, smoky and spicy tones, white pepper and anise. Quite approachable now. Highly entertaining! Great structure. The perfect gateway wine for learning the northern Rhone. High quality and affordable.'

From granitic soil at Mauves; 60% roussanne, 40% marsanne; vine age 5 - 60 years; aged 14 months in barriques. Oh, boy, nostril filling presence. And power beyond its statement. Fulfills varietal component expectations and is very ample for St. Joe blanc. Yes, equally profound in flavor and texture. I'm sure the barrels are seasoned. The wine is not 'woody' but it gains from time in barrel and subtle seasonings. Fruitier than the fine 2022 (which was tasted later in life), and just as desirable. 94+/100.

Grenache, mourvedre, syrah. Rich and robust. Plenty of purple mourvedre and black syrah on the scene. Rich and round. Power managed by fruit ripeness. Best vintage of this I've tasted. Good price too. 91/100.

Est. 1972, when a marriage united two Chateauneuf winegrowing families of long standing; 60% grenache, 40% syrah. Dark ruby. Big, ripe, rich, powerful red and black fruits. Grand Tinel super sized. Large, round, ample, sweet fruit. In tune with the estate's Chateauneufs, although smaller scaled (only by comparison). Lasting flavors and textures. Meat lover's choice. 92+/100. Respected by attendees. 'Huge wine-mini CdP!' 'Both varieties speak.' 'Relatively reigned in for its weight and concentration.'

Largest white-wine producer in the Rhone Valley; 60% viognier, 15% roussanne, 10% marsanne, 8% clairette, 5% bourboulenc, 2% grenache blanc. 85% of the makeup is of varieties classic to the northern Rhone. Origin of the grapes here is unknown. It's never very viognier perfumey though. Rich, classy, harmonious, and unique in its genre. One of the best, most forthcoming vintages. Full in the mouth. Again, not perfumey. The alcohol is positive, giving body and presence. Whole greater than sum of parts. Great craftsmanship and table versatility. 92/100.

Wine Enthusiast 92: 'Aromatic layers of dark mulberry, fresh thyme, violets, rose, truffle, and brown mushroom. On the palate, vibrant acidity lifts a core of black cherry, with subtle sweet spices and a soft, stony finish. This wine offers great balance and structure?approachable now with a decant or cellar well through 2035+. $40.'

Wine Enthusiast 91: 'The nose is focused with fresh black plums, a meaty core, and a hint of violet. On the palate, its round with smooth, grippy tannins cling to flavors of licorice and black plum. Its acidity adds a refreshing lift, leading to a subtle black tea leaf finish. A wine that's both satisfying and easy to enjoy. $20.

Yves Falmet, vigneron; at Creissan; unfiltered; 50+ year old vines on hillsides of Saint Chinian. Senses of power, old vines depth and concentration. Very 'meaty' nose, especially for cinsault. There's more cinsault flow to the palate. Still, dry extract grip. One of the most intense in the series. However, not at all an elegant wine. Demands food. 91+/100.

Created in 1967 when Marie-Therese Rolly married Louis Gassmann; at Rorschwihr, north of Colmar, Haut Rhin; from several township vineyards on a mosaic of soil types; native yeasts; not released until at least two years after bottling; capable of cellaring fifteen years. Unusual depth for today's Alsace pinot blancs. This is old time bold. Maybe some auxerrois in the mix. 92/100.Attendees were keen on this. 'The nose is 'thick and rich, singularly concentrated.' The palate ' Very thick and rich palate; coats your tongue.' 'Smooth, glycerined.' 'An outstanding example.' Multiple orders taken.

At Scherwiller; dry; finally a new vintage!; favorite mate at Leelanau Cheese Co. with its raclette; also the best asparagus match. Good combo of petit grains floweriness and ottonel green fruits. Full, and at a nice stage that reveals original fruits and a mellow merging of aroma and bouquet aspects. Fully flavorful and well balanced. Ready for the table. 91/100. 'Delicious orange and flowers aromatics.' 'A summer day in a glass.' Viscosity noted on the palate and bitterness on the finish, both Alsace muscat traits.

Mosel vineyard, Nahe cellar, Swiss owner. Yes, that PGR peach and superior sweetness and concentration of auslese. Especially CONCENTRATION. Thorough delivery, thorough VALUE. Flavorful. Acid still sugar coated; no problem. PGR auslese right! Fine potential. 92+/100. Liked even better than the PGR kabinett and spatlese tasted the two previous Weds. 'Unique flavor; not overly sweet; balanced; a really nice wine; bargain.' 'Light and airy Piesporter; sweet/acid balance there; will develop nicely.'

Well, that's a big step up in dry extract concentration. Again, the grains aspect of Pfalz riesling. So much more serious. The quality gap widens on the palate. The intensity, the dryness, and the minerality. Superb balance for table-time versatility. Long finish. Price and quality compared, this is my Sunday riesling, the Wolf my weekday choice. A learning tete a tete. 93+/100. Attendees agreed, this was superior. 'Just wonderful.' 'More acid, more extract.' 'Should last a decade at least.' Wine of the Night candidate.

Native yeasts; 70% fermented and aged six months in large seasoned casks. 2% RS. Light yellow. A proper riesling of the region, where the aim is meal worthiness over aromatics. Yes, probably stronger than from regions farther north, which increases it food worthiness. Good acid and strength, which surely hide its RS. This talks Wurttemberg and is reasonably priced for its rieslings. 92/100.

Native yeasts; 80% fermented and aged six months in seasoned barrels; 2.4% RS. Medium to medium dark crimson. Sweet red fruit nose proper to grape and zone. Good acid here too. Sure combats the RS; it tastes dry. Again, it likely has superior strength to wines from the cooler zones. Wurttembergs are made for food, and these work. 91/100.

Est. 1171; from vines under 20 years old in the best sites: Lamm, Grub, Renner. Sample still cold and not fully forthcoming. With aeration, classic apple and legume aromas forming. Seems to have the style and equilibrium inherent to the series. Nice 2022 forward fruit to it. Not as edgy as the 21. I like both, for different reasons. The acid builds nicely in back, so for flavor, texture, and balance, this goes to fulfillment. Yes. 92/100. Big time attendee favorite. 'Big nose, great nose. Just full of varietal flavor. Wonderful. Best gruve I've had.'

On slate in Condado do Tea; 75 year old vines; native yeasts. Medium yellow. Old vines intensity of aroma. Altogether, one serious, loaded albarino. Nice honeysuckle varietal flavor. Brightens up even more on the palate. At a good stage. 92/100.

From the estate of the Farina family on the La Meseta plateau south of Toro. Exceptionally ample, aromatic, forthcoming, and lifted this vintage. Gives and gives. Bravo. Equally so on the palate. Great acid and a foiling glycerol coating to boot. Come hither; one glass invites another. Good thing it comes in liters. 92/100.

At Pesquera del Duero; vineyard planted 1932; aged in French and American oak barrels. Oh, that's a rich one, the most expressive in the series, I'd bet. Wonderful and pure raspberry tempranillo, with red apple and cranberry overtones. Neat-o!/ Fresh and juicy in the Moro Resalso style. Just so generous and delicious. Flavorful and mouthfilling. Dusting of fine tannin adds texture but not resistance. A fine vintage of this. 92/100. Widely popular with attendees. Several appreciated the fact that the oak aspects were understated. Generally, attendees are not fond of pungent oak aromas and flavors.

Wine Enthusiast 93: 'Aromatics of cedar, bramble and dark berries and a waft of crushed vanilla bean make for a satisfying, and palate stimulating wine. Firm while fine grained tannins keep the wine approachable now with the potential to age.'

Est. 1886; 80% tempranillo, 15% graciano, 5% mazuelo; aged 24 months in barrels. Pretty damn dark still for its barrel and bottle age regimen. A lot of fruit delivery, with barrel age augmentations. Well poised. More barrel time shows on the palate. Still, it has plenty sweet and vital fruit and tannins are fine grained, which portend lots more years of improvement in bottle. Actually, the youngest vintage of Otano I've tasted. They're usually 15-20 years old when they get to my glass.94+/100. Attendees were in awe. WOTN for many.

Est. 1548; from the estate's Finca Carbonera vineyard; viura, verdejo, sauvignon blanc. Very pungent, forthcoming, coordinated, and convincing trio of varietal scents. Yes, crisp, brisk, minerally, in addition to being flavorful. Acid a little on the soft side up front but rallies in back. 91/100. WOTN for one attendee. Widely positive notes from others. 'Lemon drop on the nose.' 'Full fruit, complexity, good body and length.' 'A worthy bottle.'

In Carinena, Aragon; vines planted 1983; native yeasts. Ruddy dark red. That's a total contrast. There's a high altitude freshness to it, even at age four. Cooling, almost reductive, which is unusual at this age. Yes, cool and smooth and flavorful. Light, fine grained tannins. Well balanced for further improvement in the cellar, but there's little reason not to take it to the table. A good example of the diversity of grenache wines, always the sign of a great grape variety. Some fun. 91+/100. Attendees were equally intrigued. Touch of brett noted, not to a fault. 'Very interesting. Quite delish. Good fruit and also a charcuterie aspect.' 'Very savory, meaty, complex; substance and structure. Unique!'

Chardonnay, viognier, viura. Orange colored indeed. Well done. Orange aroma with some viognier honeysuckle. No oxidation. Orange flavor too. Dry, with light viscosity. Burnished texture. Good effort. 91/100.

That's explicit and forceful. Couldn't be a better representative of Mallorca tinto. Fruity, spicy, nostril filling. Full and round in the mouth, with good acid and tannin for balance and framing. Just right. 93/100.

Solid but not stodgy. Combo of Marengo give and 2020 firm core. All over again. Lots of flavor, body, texture, length. Thoroughly well balanced so both appealing now with food and offering lots more bouquet potential if cellared. Tannins are well managed. 93+/100.

Wine Enthusiast 92: 'Aromas of wild strawberries and raspberries fill the glass as hints of dried leaves provide a different perspective. Juicy on the palate but without falling off the cliff, the wine knowns what enough means and we are all better for it. Pasta, pizza, Netflix, a wine for any and all. $32.'

Wine Enthusiast 92: 'Battaglione unleashes an army of aromas ? ripe plum, juicy blackberries, sun-dried cranberries, fragrant violets, and thyme. The palate is a jolt of energy with vibrant raspberry and cherry, evolving into forest floor notes as it swirls in the glass. With a robust backbone and food-friendly texture, this vivacious Barbera exemplifies the varietal's beauty and purity. $27.'

A vineyard in the warmer reaches of southeastern Gavi planted in 1978. Strongly scented of pear and sage. One of the most explicit it this great series. Oh, boy, and the flavor goes on to ace the nose. Generous, well balanced, nicely flowing, most lasting. The complete package. Crisp, refreshing aftertaste. 92/100. Attendees were equally enthusiastic. 'Superb rich nose and palate; lovely ripeness; super delish.' 'Plenty of ripe fruit and body; nice touch of grip on the long finish.'

Est. 1949. That's simply a straight down the middle NE Italy grigio classic at a bargain price. Always is. Nice and fresh and appley. The flavor is even more forthcoming than the aroma and continues its definitive theme. Great intro to the region's popular pinot grigios. Come hither and versatile. Deal, deal, deal. 91/100.

Genuine apple and blossom varietal nose. Very delicate, which, if I remember right, is the house style. Even more flavor intensity, depth, and range. Flavors keep building on the finish. A unique and delightful take on MT. 92/100.

40% sauvignons blanc and gris, 30% garganega, 30% chardonnay; from 'bricco' vineyards; native yeasts. Medium yellow appearance. Good vintage of this; and I've followed and admired it for decades. Glimpses of each varietal component, yet, overall, the whole is greater than the sum of the parts. Zingy sauvignon blanc acid and citricity up front. The rest chime in both aromatically and texturally. All fits together so well in 2023. 92/100.

By Cantina Negrar in Classico. 60% corvina, 20% each corvinone, rondinella. Sweet smelling for regular Valpol. Some enticing floral highlights. Now that's the weight and style I appreciate in Valpolicella. Not too big for its boots. Red wines don't have to be 'big' to be good. This is a lovely middle weight/ Sweet tasting too. Good acid foil, so balanced. Yes, the levity and flow on the palate, and plenty of flavor. Come hither: one sip invites another. Lasting finish. Very versatile Yes, the levity and flow on the palate, and plenty of flavor. Come hither: one sip invites another. Lasting finish. Very versatile. Ready for the table. Well priced and popularly styled. 91/100.

By Cantina di Negrar; garganega, trebbiano di soave, chardonnay. Wow, that's fresh, crisp, and upbeat Soave. Good garganega orchard fruit aromas, trebbiano flow, and chardonnay filler. Well crafted. Proper all around for grape set, terroir, and vintage. Flavor and texture more impressive than nose promises. Now, here we have something. Better than just proper. Rich, great acid foil, so balanced. Lasting. Deal. 92/100. Attendees agreed; very popular; orders taken. 'Very Soave from nose to palate.' 'Full palate for a Soave.' 'Fleshy texture and underlying acidity for balance.' 'Reasonable price.'

Oh, yes, that's the real deal. And clearly the salamino take on Lambrusco. Dark, intense, deeply fragrant. Always a good bet and DEAL. Glad to have a fresh vintage of this. Sweetness leavened by spritz. Flavorful. Wants edgy food, like andouille. 92/100.

Est. 1934 at Firenze; mostly sangiovese. Dark ruby. Straight ahead and typical nose. Sweet and ripe on the palate. Both tannin and astringency on the back palate. Plentiful acidity. Lengthy. 91/100. A very popular value with attendees. 'Very true; great flavor; well made; super value. ''Real bargain in everyday drinking.'

Wine Spectator 93: 'This bright red is saturated with cherry, raspberry, graphite and tobacco flavors, lifted by dense, well-mannered tannins that leave an impact on the finish. Fresh and focused. Best from 2027 through 2042. $25.'

Wine Enthusiast 93: 'The nose is herbaceous and saline, with aromas of sage, bay leaf, wild mint, wild fennel, blood orange peel and saltwater running over rocks. The palate is super citrus and still salty, but laden with dark berries and soil, making for a wine that is tangy, bright and refreshing even as it's anchored in deep earth tones.'

Family run estate in southern Marche with adjoining vineyards in northern Abruzzo. Spicy and warming. Mulled-wine like pleasures. Spicy, fruity, and vigorous palate. Multi-textured: both smooth and gritty, paradoxically. Good acid, fine tannin. Flavorful, lengthy, balanced. 91/100. Attendees enjoyed this. 'Nice fruit on the nose and rich, fruity palate.' 'Highly fruit driven blackberry and black cherry aromas.' 'Good depth; fairly tannic still; needs food.'

Warmer, more southern, more mature than the Lazio rosso that preceded it. Fuller bodied than the regular Civias nero. Really great acidity sure brightens and freshens up the palate. Finest grained of tannins. Full and lasting feel and flavor. Yow, upscale compared to the regular cuvee. 92/100. Well liked; orders taken. 'Plum and fig bouquet with real interest. Dark fruit (black cherry, black raspberry) with classy structure and noteworthy length.' 'Good color, acidity, body, length.' 'Give me a burger!'

AKA ansonica; grown mainly in western Sicily, where it is commonly a basis of Marsala wines. Pretty strong character for this shy-on-aromatics variety. Subtle white fruits aroma. Good. Flavor confirms. Dry, good acid, reserved and refined. Won't compete at the dinner table. Well balanced. And, well priced. Many uses. 91/100. Observations paralleled mine, and the wine was generally liked by attendees.

All vermentino from a 25 acre vineyard. Have enjoyed other vintages of this at younger ages. And this one shows surprising stamina today. It retains varietal ID while earning suavity and depth. No nutty/grainy bouquet showing yet. Rich and round at this stage. A really gracefully aging take on vermentino of expanding richness of texture. Check the price! 91/100. Very popular; orders taken. Considered the youngest tasting of the whites.

At Dafnes, south of Heraklion; vidiano is an indigenous variety noted for aging potential More golden than the 2023, of course. This has taken to bottle age admirably. Dried fruit aspects. Rich, full, and character-ful. Sleeper. Nothing else like it. I don't know the grape well, but this one is schooling me and earning my respect. Richly deported, flavorful, full bodied, lengthy. Oh, yes, body, viscosity, good acidity. Nicely evolved nutty aspect while retaining fruit freshness. Great texture. Totally well balanced. This just rolls my socks up and down. I could drink it meal after meal over the coming months, with so many different food choices. Wow, I had doubts about the original tariff before tasting, but no longer. And irresistible at the clearance price! Unique and..awesome! 95/100.

Partly fermented in concrete eggs and clay amphorae. Pale peach. Well, that does smell like mourvedre in its rose vernacular. It's the purple fruit of the red version tilted toward purple flowers, including the violets note I so cherish. Faithful to the variety. Good acidity, dash of astringency. Well balanced through the finish. Versatile at the table. 91/100. Well liked by attendees. 'Both complex and good fun.' Varietal ID widely noted. The palate grew weightier and more assertive

50% mourvedre, 40% cinsault, 10% grenache. Medium peach. Some SO2 sharpness prickles the nostrils (tasted early June), but the fruit aroma is not impaired. Smells strong and clear. No sulphur on palate. Full and fulfilled flavor set. Singular, perhaps because of its unique varietal proportions. Well priced. 92/100.

From north-facing blocks of vines near the winery; native yeasts; young vines, mostly nebbiolo, with a little barbera and dolcetto; no malo. Lovely pale peach. Delicate and absolutely ethereal aroma. Damn, this guy knows ELEGANCE. The ultimate in nebbiolo rosato. Flavor pattern still a little murky though. Good acidity will see it through. Very tasty finish. 92+/100. Very popular with attendees, and general agreement it would improve over the coming months. 'Strawberry nose; tonic tones; fresh acidity.' Orders taken.

Tasting Panel 93: 'Honeyed peach, lemon biscuit, and jamsine are sensuous, their aromas lingering with each sip. Delicate bubbles dissipate to reveal underlying minerality. $19.'

Pinot noir cherry and blossom character and plenty of red fruit substance. Which doesn't steal the show from leesy yeast autolysis bottle bouquet. Palate confirms both fruit and brioche in spades and in harmony. Ideal Alsace sparkling rose. 92/100.

Wine Enthusiast 92 - BEST BUY: '100% Chardonnay from the Italian Alps, the wine enchants with aromas of crisp green apples, juicy pears, a hint of freshly baked bread on the nose and crushed stones. The palate dances with citrus fruits and delicate floral notes, balanced by fine, persistent bubbles that continue to impress.'