Our Favorite Wines From 2024
We asked the Cheers national wine panel to taste and rate their favorite pours from this past year. As always, these reviews include tasting notes, ratings and suggested retail price for a 750-ml. bottle (unless otherwise noted).
RATING SYSTEM
Five Stars (92-100): A top-flight wine. Superior in taste and character and providing an outstanding price/value relationship.
Four Stars (86-91): A very good wine and an excellent value. A wine for which customers will keep coming back.
Three Stars: (80-85) An above-average wine, at a reasonable price point, which many customers will enjoy.
FIVE STARS
(98) Alexander Valley Vineyards “Cyrus” 2020 (CA).
This family-owned winery continues to pay tribute to the valley with this best of the best Meritage blend, their 26th release. Eleven of the best lots were fermented and aged separately before entering a 24-month, further-aging program in French and American oak. Deep extracted color, with black fruit notes, dark chocolate aromas and oak and vanilla notes. Balanced tannins highlight the Bordeaux-style blending. This is THE wine for holiday dinners. ($79.99)
(98) Enaxi Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 (CA).
Founded in 2012, this was a nine-year project for winemaker Kirk Venge: planting to inaugural release. Sourced from their best estate fruit, hand-picked and sorted from Block C, clone 169. Twenty-one days of maceration for maximum extraction. Aged 28 months in new French oak sourced from three distinct cooperages, then bottle-aged an additional 20 months. This was their first release, and dedicated to the owner’s parents. Where to begin . . . beautiful deep color, rich mouthfeel, red and black fruit notes with a hint of minerality and balanced acidity. All this leads to a long lingering finish. THE best red I tasted this year! ($249.99)
(98) Champagne Piper-Heidsieck Rosé Sauvage NV (France).
The pinot noir component, which comprises about half of the blend, dominates the profile of this superb rosé Champagne. Deeper in color than many other rosé wines, the nose and palate are equally intense and expressive. Notes of spice and a wide range of fruits add to its outstanding profile. ($75)
(97) Quinta do Crasto Touriga Nacional 2016 (Portugal).
Exceptionally dense bright purple in the glass, the nose is dominated by dark berry fruit, with a subtle floral hint. Lush and weighty on the palate, with rich fruit and tannins, the finish lingers and lingers. Delicious now, it’s also a great candidate for aging. ($79)
(96) M. Chapoutier La Combe Pilate Esteban Sparkling 2021 (France).
A sparkling wine with a touch of a difference. 100% Viognier from the northern portion of the Rhône Valley, it is a brilliant pale gold in the glass, with straw notes. The nose is dominated by clean, bright citrus and white peach notes, and the palate reflects those characteristics, with fine and persistent bubbles. A great wine to pair with delicate and spicy dishes. ($41)
(96) Duhart Milon Pauillac 2009 (France).
Classic Bordeaux with that signature lead pencil graphite and forest floor aromas/entrancing. Sappy and silky with a long finish, a wine that should be savored and experienced by anyone who loves Bordeaux. ($170)
(96) Herdade do Rocim 2021 (Portugal).
A very modern wine, produced using ancient techniques. After crushing, the wine is aged for over a year in clay containers, which contributes to the wine’s smooth texture, along with weight on the palate, allowing the red fruits prevalent on the nose to echo on the palate. Lovely now, worthy of some aging. ($63.99)
(96) Piper Sonoma Brut Reserve NV (CA).
From one of the country’s premier sparkling wine producers, the quality and complexity of the wine demonstrates the experience and dedication to quality that Piper Sonoma consistently brings to the bottle. Bright gold, with a fine mousse, the nose exhibits notes of citrus, tropical and tree fruit, along with hints of spice. The palate is clean, and the long finish echoes the nose and complex flavors. ($27)
(96) Quinta de Ventozelo Touriga Franca 2021 (Portugal).
A wonderful example of a wine produced from a variety that certainly deserves much more attention and respect. Deep and brilliant ruby/garnet in the glass, the entrancing nose of elegant black fruit and spice is attractive and alluring. In the mouth, the wine is supple with an underlying power, showcasing its great potential for aging. At this price point, it’s an excellent value. ($25)
(96) Magdalean Toso 26 Barrels (Argentina).
Established in 1890, this family winery sources from their famed Barrancas vineyard in the Maipu district of Mendoza. The original “Flying winemaker” Paul Hobbs sources the best vineyard fruit to produce only 26 barrels of this exceptional blend. 67% malbec and 33% cabernet. Extended fermentation and maceration are complemented by 18 months in French oak. Beautiful black fruit notes, silky and smooth. Tobacco and rye flavors harmonize in smooth lingering finish. ($139.99)
(96) Grgich Hills Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (CA).
It was time to taste the legend, and the “grape whisperer” speaks the best through his wines. This is from the “Legacy series,” which sources old vine grapes planted in 1959 based on the classic Inglenook clone, grafted to St. George rootstock. Mike Grgich, celebrated winemaker from the 1976 Paris tasting, works his magic with classic Napa fruit. Opulent and rich, great structure with dark fruit notes, dark chocolate and rich minerality. Perfect wine for the holiday smoked prime rib. ($249.99)
(95) Ciacci Piccolomini Pianrosso Brunello di Montalcino 2008 (Italy).
Brick color with a vibrant cherry/berry, graphite nose. Leather, blackberry and cedar round out a smooth mouthful of lush tannins. Went very well with fried artichokes and pasta at our local trattoria. ($85)
(95) San Felice Vigorello 2019 (Italy).
From one of the pioneers of the Super Tuscan movement, the usual regional blend is augmented and elevated by the use of Pugnitello, a native variety that contributes complexity and structure to the wine. Intensely dark ruby in the glass, the nose and palate both reflect the dark red fruit, with spice and subtle floral character. Wonderfully flexible in terms of the wide range of dishes that the wine complements. ($57.99)
(94) Oberon Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (CA).
Oberon has proven to be one of the most reliable sauvignon blanc producers in the country. The 2023 bottling further confirms the reputation is well earned. Brilliant straw gold in the glass, the nose and palate are dominated by bright and clean tree fruit, with hints of honeydew. Vivid and focused on the palate, a versatile and lovely wine. ($19)
(94) J. Lohr Riverstone Chardonnay 2022 (CA).
Not trying to sound like a broken record, but Kristen Barnhisel works her magic with chardonnay . . . again. A beautifully done new label along with a Stelvin closure updates this classic. Ten different clones, including the classic Wente, give overlapping layers of flavor. 72% malolactic fermentation, hand-stirring the lees for 7-9 months, and a proprietary cooperage program of American, French and Hungarian coopers add complexity to the barrel fermentation. Lemon, tangerine and peach flavors add to the sweet oak finish. This wine consistently overdelivers for the money. A mainstay for all holiday dinners. ($12.99)
(94) Whitehall Lane Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (CA).
Originally founded in 1979, today the winery is owned by the Leonardini family who source 200 acres from eight prime vineyard sites. Primarily cab, with touches of merlot, malbec, and petite verdot for complexity. Concentrated dark fruit, with toasted vanilla and cedar notes. ($59.99)
(94) Stoller Estate Pinot Noir 2022 (OR).
Produced in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this outstanding pinot noir is supple and complex. The dark fruit is accented by spice and floral notes. The finish is lengthy and balanced, highlighting red fruit and subtle spice notes. ($35)
(94) McPherson’s Copains Rosé 2023 (TX).
From the founding family of the Texas wine industry comes this beautifully crafted rosé. Utilizing the best Provence and Rhone varietals grown in Texas, this is an artful blend of grenache and cinsault, with a touch of mourvèdre and ugni blanc for added complexity. Medium bodied, perfumy, floral, with hints of rose petals. Perfect poolside wine. ($26.99)
(94) J. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (CA).
One of the early pioneers of this AVA, and winemaker Brenden Wood utilizes primarily the estate fruit from Lohr’s own Shotwell and Beck vineyards as the foundation for this offering. Estate-grown petite verdot, malbec and cab franc is added for rich complexity. Sixteen months in French oak, sourced from five select coopers. Deep color, concentrated black fruit notes, balanced tannins, with a smooth lingering finish. Perfect for a roast beef holiday meal. ($34.99)
(94) Blicks Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (New Zealand).
Presents vibrant aromas of citrus, especially lime and grapefruit, with subtle hints of tropical fruit like passionfruit and guava. On the palate it is crisp and refreshing, with zesty acidity that balances the fruit-forward flavors. There’s a light minerality, adding complexity, and the finish is clean, leaving a lingering note of green apple and a touch of herbaceousness. This sauvignon blanc is bright and well structured. ($16.99)
(93) Raventos blanc de Nit Cava 2019 (Spain).
With the inclusion of a small percentage of garnacha, this pale pink bubble delivers a visual pleasure, as well as its silky refined texture. From the oldest continuous family-owned property in Europe established in 1497. ($30)
(93) Analemma Oak Ridge Pinot Noir 2019 (OR).
From an organically farmed site at 1,400 feet at the base of Mount Adams. Piles of rose and cranberry on a silken texture, just delicious. ($40)
(93) Amity Vineyards Pinot Noir 2022 (OR).
From one of Oregon’s authentic pioneer wine producers, this pinot noir exemplifies what Oregon brings to the pinot noir world. Dark bright ruby in the glass, the nose and palate lean towards ripe dark fruit, with lovely accents of spice and floral hints. An excellent expression of Oregon fruit and winemaking. ($28)
(93) Tenuta la Pergola Vino Rosso Birbet NV (Italy).
A vibrant and aromatic sparkling red with a playful sweetness. The nose reveals ripe red berries — particularly raspberry — and strawberry, with hints of wildflowers. On the palate, it is light and fruity, offering juicy cherry and a touch of spice. Its slight effervescence enhances the refreshing character, leading to a smooth, semi-sweet finish. Delightfully easy to drink and charmingly lively. ($18.99)
(93) Rotie Southern Blend 2018 (WA).
This Rhone-style wine is a mouthful of pepper, strawberry and black berry. Rose scents contrast the light smoke and meaty palate. Small production makes it special, as well. Brisket on the barbie for this one. ($60) •
(92) Ruca Malen Kinien Malbec 2012 (Argentina).
Elegant with a palate of ripe cherry, plum, violets, smoke and a hint of dark chocolate. The tannins are concentrated and sweet. This is definitely not your everyday malbec, and worth every penny. ($75)
FOUR STARS
(91) Cortonesi La Mannella Brunello di Montalcino 2019 (Italy).
The Cortonesi family established themselves as wine producers in the 70’s with 138 acres under cultivation. They produced their first brunello in 1990, and sourcing for this wine comes from a select 19-acre plot. Young tannins, but very age-worthy. Hand-picked and sorted, this wine undergoes extended maceration in stainless steel before aging for 36 months in Slavonian oak. Rich dark fruit notes, hints of almond and spice. Great holiday wine for grilled pork, osso buco or prime rib. ($81.99)
(91) Cricova Brut NV (Moldova).
Offers crisp, refreshing flavors with a bright acidity. The palate reveals green apple, citrus zest and subtle floral notes, complemented by a delicate minerality. Its fine bubbles add a lively texture, while the finish is clean and refreshing with a hint of toast. A balanced sparkling wine with elegance and finesse. ($9.99)
(89) Paul Dolan Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (CA).
With all the new kids on the block, it’s easy to overlook the pioneer families that established the industry. Under the Parducci umbrella established in 1932 is the Paul Dolan offerings, with their organic certification, along with being certified sustainable in farming practices. Softer acidity, with green apple, honeysuckle and lychee notes. ($29.99)
(89) True Grit Petite Sirah 2022 (CA).
Another Parducci offering, from Mendocino’s original winery established in 1932. For those who enjoy a lighter style of red that still has some oomph and is food friendly. Black cherry, currant and bright plum notes. American and Hungarian oak brings out touches of vanilla and nutmeg. A strong commitment to the land as they have achieved CCOF certification along with certified sustainable farming practices. An organic jewel that complements holiday entertaining. ($29.99)
(88) McPherson Cellars Picpoul 2022 (TX).
100% Piquepoul from the High Plains. Affectionately called the lip-stinger, this is another example of a French varietal that thrives in the Texas terroir. Very balanced acidity, great minerality and apricot/peach notes. Perfect “P” wine: porch, pool or patio wine. Great pairing with fresh Gulf Coast seafood. ($24.99)
(87) Alexander Valley Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2023 (CA).
Classic Sonoma sauvignon blanc. Beautiful, fruit-forward style. Clean, crisp, 100% stainless steel. Balanced acidity, with citrus, pineapple and guava notes. Wonderful alternative to chardonnay for the holiday meal season. ($27.99) •
Want more wine reviews? Our panels in the past year have included:
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