Wine Reviews: American Wines
We asked the ournational wine panel to taste and rate American Wines. 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) Newsom Vineyards “Inception” 2020 (TX)
I think this is Nolan Newsom’s signature wine. All estate fruit in a classic blend of cabernet, sangiovese, tempranillo and cabernet franc — a Texan Super Tuscan interpretation. 12 months in oak really mellows this wine out and lets the fruit shine. Time to start smoking a prime rib to pair with this. ($59.99)
(98) Bending Branch Tannat Reserve 2020 (TX)
Dr. Robert Young brings a decidedly scientific approach to the art of Texas winemaking, utilizing cyro maceration, whole berry fermentation and flash détente to highlight his signature varietal: tannat. Now adding a Texas element to the aging process: Texas white oak barrels. Young was the driving force behind this latest innovation, working with a new cooperage in Blanco, TX. 24 months aging program, with the last four months in Texas white oak. 11-year-old vines yield exceptional fruit with hints of pecan, almonds, butterscotch and vanilla. This great winery is always pushing the envelope! Time for that prime rib. ($69.99)
(98) Bending Branch Petite Verdot Reserve 2020 (TX)
Another part of the new Texas white oak barrel program, this adds a new level of complexity and flavor components. Brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon and vanilla notes. Only 70 cases produced. 24-month barrel aging. Rich, smooth and supple. This should be part of the Texas Beef Councils advertising campaign! ($59.99)
(97) Canvasback Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 (WA)
Sourcing from the famed Red Mountain district and utilizing fruit from eight distinct vineyards allows for true expression of this terrior. 86% cab with merlot, syrah, malbec and cab franc for complexity. The 19-month French oak aging program uses eight different coopers. Raspberry, cherry and plum notes. Smooth tannins and a rich mouthfeel all lead to a plush, lingering finish. Works very well with pork tenderloin. ($34.99)
(96) Peake Ranch Sta. Rita Hills Chardonnay 2022 (CA)
The 2022 Peake Ranch Chardonnay from Santa Rita Hills is a vibrant and refined expression of the region. It opens with aromas of ripe citrus, white peach and toasted almond, layered with hints of vanilla and flinty minerality. On the palate, it balances richness and tension beautifully, offering a creamy texture lifted by crisp acidity. The finish is long, with notes of lemon curd, wet stone and subtle oak spice, showcasing both elegance and power typical of the Sta. Rita Hills terroir. ($34.99)
(96) Bending Branch Texas Cowboy Cuvee 2021 (TX)
Sourcing doesn’t get much better than the famed Newson vineyards in the High Plains. A classic Texas cuvee of cabernet, merlot, petite sirah and malbec. Aged for 24 months, with the final aging in the new Texas white oak barrels. Only 212 cases produced. Dark chocolate, vanilla and cherry flavors dominate. A new Texas classic. ($59.99)
(96) Slate Theory “Phobic” 2022 (TX)
Zinfandel (75%) and petite sirah (25%) sourced from the Texas High Plains. Aged 18 months in a mix of French and neutral oak. A Texas fruit bomb on the nose, with hints of pepper, spice and cherries. Looking forward to even better wines as their own estate reds program comes online! ($59.99)
(95) Spicewood Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 (TX)
A very good quality cab from the Yates family, eighth-generation farmers. 100% cabernet with rich cherry, blueberry and blackberry notes. High-elevation vineyard with cool nights and hot Texas days. Touches of vanilla and tea notes. Also check out their sister winery Ron Yates on the 290 Wine Trail; some award-winning reds! ($40.99)
(95) McPherson Cellars Viognier 2023 (TX)
The classic Texas alternative to California chardonnay. Good acidity, aromatic with fragrant floral notes of apricot and peach. A touch of spritz leads to a lingering finish. Stainless-steel fermentation preserves the delicate fruit notes. Excellent with shrimp to pork tenderloin, and even chicken off the grill. Great value for the money. ($29.99)
(95) Parr Vineyard “Celebration” Mourvedre 2019 (TX)
This is 100% mourvèdre from their estate vineyards in the Hickory Sands AVA (pending). Aged in neutral French oak with additional bottle aging for three months. Medium bodied, balanced acidity and intense dark-fruit flavors. Only 145 cases produced. A wonderful pairing with grilled salmon. ($39.99)
(94) McPherson Cellars EVS Windblown 2023 (TX)
McPherson continues to build on his legacy of blending Old World varietals in a uniquely Texas style. Mouvedre-based, with additions of syrah, carignan, petite sirah and grenache for complexity. Earth, vine and sky (EVS) rich, with dark-fruit flavors. Aged 10 months in French oak. Perfect for a huge chunk of smoked brisket. ($29.99)
(94) Slate Theory “Kleptomaniac” 2021 (TX)
A recently added 13,000-sq.-ft. highlights their growing presence on the 290 Wine Trail. 63% aglianico and 37% petite sirah, sourced from the High Plains AVA. Aged 30 months in neutral oak. Only 181 cases produced. Soft, silky and herbaceous, with hints of plum, orange and black tea. Perfect with Texas BBQ. ($59.99)
(94) Greenwing Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 (WA)
A newer part of the expanding Duckhorn portfolio, it utilizes the shared sourcing and winemaking experience of the Duckhorn brand. 78% cabernet with touches of malbec, merlot and syrah for complexity. Aged 16 months in a stainless steel and French oak regimen. Strawberry, cherry and plum notes, with hints of cranberry and coffee. Great mouthfeel. Very complex, concentered, with a smooth finish. Perfect for steaks on the grill. ($19.99)
(94) Old Winery Road 2022 (CA)
Crafted from grapes grown in both Napa and Sonoma, this is a seamless fusion of two iconic regions. Layers of red cherry, blackberry and black currant unfold with decadent notes of cocoa and cinnamon. The structure is refined and elegant, balancing richness and finesse. ($34.99)
(94) Analemma Mencia (OR)
Biodynamically farmed estate fruit. Very aromatic with lilac, lavender and violets. Light to medium bodied, with a savory side to its silky texture. A bright and lively domestic version of this varietal that is mostly found on the Iberian Peninsula. ($50)
(93) 69 Miles Chardonnay 2024 (CA)
This bombastic chardonnay bursts with concentrated flavors of mango, pear and white peach, buttercream. Despite its opulence, the wine remains beautifully balanced, finishing with a crisp lift that keeps it food friendly and refreshing. ($19.99)
(93) Harvester Cabernet Sauvignon Creston District 2023 (CA)
Crafted by Austin Hope, this cabernet showcases the richness of the Creston District with concentrated plum and black cherry flavors. The palate is plush and inviting, finishing with warm notes of sandalwood, clove and nutmeg. ($39.99)
(93) The Obscene Proprietary Red Blend 2022 (CA)
Lush and indulgent, this zinfandel-dominant blend is a decadent treat. Strawberries and whipped cream aromas lead into a palate of blackberry compote, melted chocolate and baking spices flavors and silk, plush tannins. ($44.99)
(93) Spicewood Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (TX)
Sauvignon blanc is hard to find in Texas, but this is a real gem of a find. Grown, produced and bottled in their Spicewood Texas estate vineyards. 100% sauvignon blanc; fermented and aged in stainless steel for six months to preserve the pure fruit notes. Lemon zest, green apple and hints of papaya. Balanced acidity and finished in a lighter style. This could surprise some California sauvignon blanc drinkers — excellent quality. ($31.99)
(93) 1858 Napa 2021 (CA)
From the makers of Caymus, this offers concentrated flavors of blackberry, black cherry, smoke, toast and vanilla. Lavender aromatics lift the nose, while the palate is long and composed. ($69.99)
(93) Schnaer Family Pinot Noir 2023 (OR)
The 2023 Schnaer Pinot Noir opens with vibrant aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry and a hint of rose petal, layered with subtle notes of forest floor and baking spice. On the palate, it’s light to medium bodied, with bright acidity and silky tannins, showcasing flavors of red currant, pomegranate and a touch of earthy minerality. The finish is elegant and smooth, with a whisper of oak and lingering spice that speaks to its cool-climate origins. ($22.99)
(92) 1858 Paso 2023 (CA)
From the makers of Caymus. Juicy and expressive, this Paso Robles red is packed with jammy strawberry and cherry, accented by clove and cedar. Rich and round, it leans into opulence while maintaining balance through spicy undertones. ($39.99)
(92) The Paring Chardonnay 2023 (CA)
A fresh and vibrant expression, the 2023 Paring chardonnay opens with aromas of citrus blossom, lemon curd and subtle toasted oak. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with crisp acidity, showcasing flavors of green apple, ripe pear and a hint of vanilla. The finish is clean and mineral-driven, with just enough creaminess to round it out without feeling heavy. ($24.99)
(92) Newsom Vineyards Lavern’s Merlot 2020 (TX)
Sourced from their estate vineyards, this is some of the oldest merlot vines in the state at 28 years old. Named as a tribute to their grandmother Lavern. 18 months in oak showcases the rich fruit. In the summer Texas heat, try this wine with just a slight chill — delicious! ($34.99)
(92) Slate Theory “The Orderly” 2024 (TX)
The Jones family continues to push the boundaries of the Texas wine industry. High plains fruit combines sangiovese (65%) with nebbiolo (35%). Lighter in style, crisp acidity and great color extraction. Perfect “P” wine for porch, pool or patio sipping. ($39.99)
(92) Courtney Benham Pinot Noir 2022 (CA)
A complex and structured pinot noir with bright red cherry and strawberry at its core. Hints of cedar and smoke add depth, while medium tannins and well-integrated oak provide a firm backbone, creating a compelling mix of primary fruit and savory nuances. ($24.99)
FOUR STARS
(91) Harvester Zinfandel (CA)
From the makers of Austin Hope, Hope Family Wines has crafted a rich and delectable example of Paso Robles zinfandel. Deep and luscious bramble fruits intertwined with earthy, savory notes showcase the best of the varietal. This is a zinfandel lover’s dream, but fans of Paso Robles cabernets will enjoy the dark and broody fruit notes. ($19.99)
(91) Leia Vintners Cabernet 2023 (CA)
A classic cabernet with black cherry and cedar notes and well-integrated oak, lending structure without overpowering the fruit. Balanced and easy-drinking, this should be a go-to for everyday enjoyment! ($12.99)
(91) Time and Tide Chardonnay 2023 (CA)
Aromatics of lemon zest, sage and fresh herbs lead into a palate driven by concentrated citrus flavors and lively acidity. The oak influence is present but understated, lending a rounded texture without overshadowing the wine’s crisp, clean finish. ($16.99)
(91) Barrage “Nuclear Blonde” Chardonnay (WA)
From a single vineyard site (Boushey Vineyard). Barrel fermented in large 50% new oak. Creamy textured with a wallop of butterscotch on the finish. Fans of lumber and chardonnay will adore this wine. Fewer than 200 cases made. ($30)
(91) Samuel Robert Pinot Noir 2023 (OR)
Bold and fruit-driven, this pinot noir bursts with ripe strawberry and bing cherry. Minimal oak influence allows the vibrant fruit to dominate. A pinot for cabernet lovers, offering intensity over subtlety. ($17.99)
(91) Iter Napa Cabernet 2023 (CA)
This Napa cabernet delivers classic appeal with a smooth, well-rounded profile. Dark cherry and chocolate notes lead the palate, supported by firm yet integrated oak that adds structure without overwhelming the fruit. ($21.99)
(91) Muirwood Sauvignon Blanc 2024 (CA)
Bright and zesty, this sauvignon blanc bursts with citrus, pear and nectarine. A streak of minerality and crisp acidity keeps the palate fresh and clean. A lively and refreshing white with excellent value! ($12.99)
(90) Barrel & Bell Buttery Chardonnay 2023 (CA)
Concentrated aromas of pineapple, mango and vanilla custard. On the palate, lush tropical fruit interweave with creamy vanilla and hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and toasted oak. The round, creamy texture is enriched by subtle notes of cedar and toast. ($15.99)
(90) Blue Canyon Pinot Noir 2022 (CA)
Aromas of red and black cherry are layered with hints of black tea, toast and smoke, creating an inviting and nuanced bouquet. The palate delivers a well-balanced and enjoyable expression of Monterey with a smooth, approachable profile. ($16.99)
(90) Carson Ridge Cabernet 2023 (CA)
A lighter, fruit-forward cabernet with fresh strawberries and cherry notes. Subtle oak influence allows the expressive fruit to take center stage, resulting in a smooth, easy-drinking red that offers great value and approachability without sacrificing character. ($13.99)
(90) Forever Vineyards Pinot Noir 2023 (CA)
Fresh and aromatic, this pinot delivers bright raspberry and strawberry accented with a subtle touch of nutmeg. Fruit-forward and easygoing style that’s perfect for any occasion. ($12.99)
(89) Left Foot Charley Riesling 2022 (MI)
A vibrant wine with classic riesling petrol notes and a touch of sweetness which nicely balances its electric acidity. Would be a pleasure with spicy Thai food. ($20)
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Feature photo by Fantesca Estate & Winery on Unsplash.
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