Wine Reviews: American Wines
For our latest round of wine reviews, we asked our national 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.
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Rating System
Five Stars (100-92): A top-flight wine, superior in taste and character, and providing a superior price/value ratio.
Four Stars (91-86): A very good wine and an excellent value. A wine for which customers will keep coming back.
FIVE STARS
(96) Roederer Estate Anderson Valley Brut Sparkling NonVintage (CA).
Mesmerizing toasted brioche aromas leap from the glass, while flavors of caramel apple, orange, lemon zest and honey dance on the palate. Tasting blind, one could be fooled into thinking this is Champagne. A remarkable wine that overdelivers for its price. ($29.99)
(96) NV 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 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)
(95) Bernau Block Pinot Noir 2021 (OR).
Sourced from a single vineyard just south of Salem, this scrumptious pinot noir rings all the bells! A nose of plum, herbs and graphite leads to a complex palate of red and black fruit, cedar, chocolate and a touch of cinnamon. The structured tannins and well-balanced acidity complete this wine that belongs next to a plate of grilled lamb chops and mushroom risotto. ($70)
(95) 1881 Napa Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (CA).
This is a big and chewy cabernet. It feels like the flavors of blackberry and cassis are going to explode on your palate at the start of the first sip. Amazingly, all those big jammy flavors fall into place for and extremely satisfying finish. ($35)
(95) Admire Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2022 (CA).
Made by Dan Kosta, cofounder of Kosta Browne, this pinot noir is a gorgeous example of what the grape is capable of in the right hands. Blackberry, raspberry and black tea flow in waves over the palate before giving way to a long and luxurious finish. A truly sexy wine. ($34.99)
(94) Anatomy Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (CA).
A wonderful cabernet sauvignon featuring inviting aromas of leather and dark fruit. On the palate, deep flavors of black cherry and espresso fill the mouth. The long finish shows hints of cocoa powder. A bargain for Napa Valley cabernet. ($29.99)
(94) Pedroncelli Dry Creek Valley Mother Clone Zinfandel 2021 (CA)
A powerful wine delivering loads of black currant, plum, raspberry and smoked meat. The lengthy finish shows hints of toasted oak and chocolate. A rich wine that pairs perfectly with barbeque. ($19.99)
(94) The Calling Russian River Valley Pinot Noir 2022 (CA)
A beautiful representation of the wonders of Russian River Pinot Noir. There are silky and satisfying layers of rich plum, dark cherry and an ever so gentle hint of vanilla. ($31)
(94) The Paring Pinot Noir 2022 (CA).
The 2022 The Paring Pinot Noir offers a vibrant and expressive profile. On the nose, it exudes aromas of ripe red cherries, strawberries and raspberries. The palate is well balanced, presenting a delightful combination of fresh acidity and smooth tannins. Flavors of red currant and cranberry dominate, complemented by nuances of spice, vanilla and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and elegant, leaving a lingering impression of fruit and a delicate touch of oak. ($24.99)
(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) 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) Old Winery Road Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 (CA).
Grapes from both Napa and Sonoma Counties were used by the winemakers at Buena Vista to showcase the qualities of each in a seamless 50/50 blend. Hints of cedar spice with blueberry, blackberry and black currant notes on the palate. Fruit forward, rich and well-integrated. ($39.99)
(93) Chehalem Pinot Gris 2023 (OR).
Fermented and aged in steel, the bright citrus and stone fruit aspects of the wine shine through the nose and palate. Enough weight to satisfy a wide range of wine lovers, the focus of the fruit is foremost in the wine’s strength, as it is eminently flexible in the large number of dishes that pair well with it. ($20)
(93) ALL Chard by Rob Lloyd Chardonnay 2023 (CA).
Oak, vanilla and butter flavors balance in perfect harmony in this full-bodied, single-vineyard chardonnay. Winemaker Rob Lloyd’s technique with the grape gives the true chardonnay drinker exactly what they are looking for; powerful, ripe fruit and lasting flavor. ($34.99)
(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) Savage Grace Skin-Con-tact Gewurztraminer (OR).
A brilliant orange wine that spent 15 days on the skins. Enticing aromatics of orange skin, ginger, clove and honey. A dry Gewurz-traminer that begs to be paired with tikka masala. ($36)
(93) Barra Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (CA).
The 2021 Barra Cabernet Sauvignon presents a rich and robust character. On the nose, it reveals enticing aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and plum, mingled with hints of tobacco, cedar and dark chocolate. The palate is full bodied and opulent, with velvety tannins providing a solid structure. Flavors of ripe black fruits are prominent, accented by notes of espresso, black pepper and a touch of vanilla from well-integrated oak. ($23.99)
(93) Bold Wine Co. Cabernet 2021 (CA).
On the palate, it presents a full-bodied texture, dominated by deep flavors of blackberry and cassis. These dark fruit notes are complemented by underlying layers of mocha and a touch of vanilla. ($29.99)
(93) 1858 Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2022 (CA).
Coming from the iconic Wagner family, makers of Caymus, this is an extremely versatile pairing wine with notes of blackberry, vanilla, dried brush, baking spices and bell pepper rind. It is a rich, lush wine that’s sure to impress. ($39.99)
(92) Hall Ranch Red Blend 2022 (CA).
A fun and approachable Rhone Style blend from Paso Robles. This medium-bodied wine exudes notes of bright cherry and spice. The graphite notes taper the fruit into a structured finish. This could be easily paired with a variety of food from barbeque to a delicate cheese plate. ($19.99)
(92) Sean Minor Signature Series Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2021 (CA).
There is a flavorful elegance to this chardonnay. Gentle notes of butter and apple are intertwined with balanced acidity, leaving a delightful, lingering finish. ($25)
(92) Stolpman ‘Love you Bunches’ Rose 2023 (CA).
On the nose, it offers fragrant aromas of strawberry, watermelon and a hint of rose petals, complemented by subtle notes of citrus zest. Upon tasting, the palate is greeted with a refreshing burst of red berries, including ripe raspberries and juicy cherries, balanced with a crisp acidity that provides a clean and invigorating finish. The mouthfeel is light and refreshing, making it an ideal choice for warm weather or as a versatile pairing with a variety of dishes. ($17.99)
(92) Smith Bench Pinot Noir 2021 (CA).
From the Wente Family, this is a fresh and lively pinot noir from Monterey with a balanced acidity that enables it to be easily paired with any meal or occasion. A symphony of tart cherries, baking spice and gentle tannins. ($22.99)
(92) Vennstone Reserve 2023 (CA).
A powerful pinot noir offering intense aromas of plum and caramel. Firm bodied, leathery with dried fig, more black fruits and a slight herbaceous quality of sage. The finish is light compared to the powerhouse entrance. ($36.99)
FOUR STARS
(91) Caliveda Reserve Pinot Noir 2022 (CA).
Fans of jammy, juicy pinots and red blends will adore this plush and sumptuously fruit forward style of pinot noir. Blueberry, vanilla, brown sugar and blackberry jam run rampant across the palate, but are balanced by the soft and sweet cedar on the finish. ($24.99)
(91) Muirwood Chardonnay Arroyo Seco (CA).
Soft aromas for hazelnut, baked apple and pineapple followed by pear and citrus notes on the palate, balanced by oak, which gives added complexity. Full bodied and rounded creamy texture leaves you with a lingering finish. ($16.99)
(91) Invicta Red Blend 2023 (CA).
A plush example of a Sonoma County red blend that lovers of full-bodied wines will appreciate. Rich and structured, with notes of ripe almost overly ripe red fruits, baked cherry pie and tobacco. ($19.99)
(91) Medina Gap Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (CA).
Just as strong as previous vintages. Fruit-forward and approachable with blackberry, plum and black currant notes. A people pleaser with elevated but soft tannin structure on the finish. ($18.99)
(91) Analemma Oak Ridge Pinot Noir 2019 (OR).
From an organically farmed vineyard at 1,300 ft. elevation at the base of Mount Adams. Hand harvested, half whole-cluster fermented and aged in neutral oak. A gorgeous, translucent strawberry color with aromas and flavors of cran- berry, rose and cinnamon. ($44)
(91) Mina Mesa Rosé 2023 (CA).
Very light salmon pink color with soft notes of strawberry and watermelon. This is a bone-dry, easy-drinking rosé that has a brightness that enlivens the palate. Would be a great summer porch drink or pairable with most foods! ($10.99)
(91) Buttonwood Grove Cabernet Franc 2021 (NY).
With supple tannins and lovely dark fruit, this Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc demonstrates the quality and food-friendly nature of this often-overlooked variety. This example possesses lots of clean dark fruit, with the subtlest of spice and a touch of cocoa powder. The tannins are nicely balanced, and contribute to the lengthy, balanced finish. ($24.99)
(90) L’ Ecole Semillon 2022 (WA).
Vibrant and refreshing with layers of stone fruit, honeysuckle, lemon and pear. Sustainably managed, beautiful, complex and perfect for a summer picnic with fresh tuna salad sandwiches and pom frites. ($22)
(90) The Paring Chardonnay 2022 (CA).
The 2022 Paring Chardonnay reveals a bright and inviting straw-yellow hue. On the nose, it opens with a bouquet of ripe tropical fruits — notably pineapple and mango — interwoven with fragrant notes of citrus blossom and hints of vanilla from subtle oak aging. Flavors of juicy apple, lemon zest and a hint of toasted almond unfold, complemented by a delicate undertone of butterscotch. ($24.99)
(90) Camp Merlot 2022 (CA).
The 2022 Camp Merlot pours a deep, rich ruby color with purple hues around the edges, exhibiting good clarity and a medium to full body. The nose presents a bouquet of ripe dark fruits like black cherries, plums and blackberries, with subtle notes of cocoa, vanilla and freshly turned earth. On the palate, it offers a smooth texture with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, cedar and licorice, balanced by refreshing acidity. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering dark fruit, a hint of spice and well-integrated, silky tannins. ($19.99)
(90) Sean Minor Pinot Noir 2022 (CA).
On the palate, it is medium bodied with a smooth, silky texture, revealing a medley of juicy red fruits like cherry and cranberry, layered with pomegranate and a touch of mushroom. The wine’s bright acidity and well-integrated tannins create a harmonious balance, leading to a refreshing, long finish accented by lingering notes of red fruit, a hint of vanilla and a delicate minerality. ($27.99)
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Feature photo by Zachariah Hagy on Unsplash.
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