United States Wine

Expert Ratings

Winemaker Description

Scharffenberger Brut Excellence is made by the traditional méthode champenoise process – whereby the wines are individually bottle-fermented before being riddled and disgorged. The wine is approximately two-thirds Pinot Noir and one-third Chardonnay and undergoes 100% malolactic fermentation. Scharffenberger Brut is made from its own 120-acre vineyards in the Anderson Valley. In addition, Scharffenberger Cellars has long-term contracts with select vineyards in the greater Mendocino County. This type of vineyard selection allows us to choose from the best vineyards in the area which enables us to produce their trademark cuvée.

The wine is two-thirds Pinot Noir which produces a red fruit (cherry and plum) forward nose combined with one-third Chardonnay which adds the tropical expression of litchi nut and mango. The 100% malolactic fermentation adds a vanilla cream character producing a round and full-bodied wine. After approximately two years on the yeast lees, there are notes of freshly baked bread and pastry that enhances the more fruit-forward style of the wine. Finally, after several months on the cork the wine develops caramel and hazel complexors.

Expert Rating

93 Points Wine Spectator | A wine that suggests a sense of place, this is refined and just a hint rustic, which adds to the authenticity. Notes of cherry and pomegranate are laced with hints of white pepper and bay leaf. Drink now.

Winemaker Description

Located at 1000 to 1200 ft., the vineyard overlooks upper Chiles Canyon and remnant walls of the grist wills built by pioneer J.B. Chiles. Brooding dark purple plum raspberry flavors dotted with sage and black peppercorns.

Our Professional Review

Rand S. & David W of 67Wine.com | This is considered a very rare California boutique sauvignon blanc.  It is highly sought after for those seeking a very special wine.  Realm makes some of the most sought after wines out of Napa and their Sauvignon Blanc is one of the finest expressions in the valley.

You will find tropical fruit notes including lemon, tangerine, and a hint of peach.  Great wine. It is not grassy but rather soft on the palate. Very elegant, balanced and not over ripe. Staff tasted & recommended.   

Wine Advocate 97 points The 2019 Pinot Noir Outcrop is a beautiful wine with arresting aromatics: a core of wild berries is accented by tea leaves, lavender, Campari and lemon peel. The light-bodied palate is grainy and fresh with surprising concentration for its approachable frame and a very long detailed finish. 

Winemaker Description

Guided by the idea that “less is more,” this wine is dry and fresh, with crisp fruit flavors and bright minerality. Some of their grapes come from family vineyards in Napa Valley, with the majority coming from Suisun Valley, a “hidden gem” wine region only a short drive from Napa. Suisun shares a similar maritime climate and produces exceptional fruit.

The bright minerality adds complexity and depth to the wine, while the low alcohol (12.5 percent) and bright acidity make it an easy-drinking delight.

Winemaker Description 

Our ‘108’ Chardonnay comes from the own rooted and old vines at Wirtz Vineyard. Chardonnay styles are as divisive as politics these days.  The Oregon wine machine is back promoting the advantages of Oregon Chardonnay once again.

This is good news.  After many starts and stops with this grape over the years, Oregon Chardonnay is positioned to be a grape that gains national respect. 

Winemaker Description

This delicious, versatile wine begins with aromas of blackberry, rose hip, dried cranberries and hints of boysenberry followed by notes of violets and crushed spices.

On the palate, the wine begins with a soft, dense, lush, tannin structure supported by flavors of red berry fruit, subtle acidity and a long flavorful, vanilla finish. 

Winemaker Description

A Bordeaux-style blend, this wine offers aromas of black cherry, plum, and cedar. The palate is full-bodied, with layers of dark fruit, tobacco, and dark chocolate. Supple tannins and well-integrated oak contribute to a long, smooth finish. Pair it with grilled steak, lamb chops, or hearty stews for a memorable dining experience. 

Winemaker Description

A brilliant deep mahogany red with a glint of purple courtesy of the Petite Sirah, this Merlot’s lovely hue sets the stage for a generous palate of rich, ripe fruit. Aromas of blueberry and plum leap from the glass, layered over a subtle thread of graphite, pencil shaving and a suggestion of dried herbs. This medium-bodied, medium-toast wine has ripe tannins and a long, velvety-smooth finish. 

Winemaker Description

The Lenore Syrah is aromatic with rich, sweet berry notes of blueberry, boysenberry, red currant and plum. The mouthwatering acidity is nicely balanced with firm tannins and layers of bright bramble fruit. As this wine coats the palate, underlying hints of vanilla bean, peppercorn and sweet tobacco shine through. A robust finish includes chocolate and raspberry.

Enjoy the Lenore Syrah with barbecued ribs, a hearty lamb stew or your favorite burger. 

Winemaker Description

2023 marks our eighth vintage of sauvignon blanc and our sourcing has remained the same for all eight vintages. We work closely with our two growers, one in Carneros and the other just east of Yountville. How sauvignon blanc is grown has a major impact on what flavors we get, so we spend time during the growing season ensuring we are exposing the clusters to the right amount of sum, too little sum and you get the green bell pepper flavors, too much gives you flavors of guava. Too much canopy drives grassy flavors we want to avoid.

Winemaker Description

To create Oberon Merlot, the winemaker sourced grapes from Napa Valley’s renowned Oakville district. The deeper alluvial soils along with the perfect balance of cool mornings and afternoons make this are the perfect location for growing Bordeaux varietals. The winemaker sources Syrah and Zinfandel in small lots specifically for this blend as they marry beautifully with this Merlot and bring out the rich character of this delicious expressive Oakville fruit.

Winemaker Description

This Red Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon offers notes of blackberry, cassis, anise, fig, cardamom, fresh leather, graphite, dried herbs, and dusty cocoa. It is lush, rich, and round on the palate. A tense, dry wine with long finish.

Expert Review

93 Points James Suckling | Dense and dark, with aromas of cedar, cinnamon and black plums, then tight on the palate as bitter chocolate and black cherries are coated in firm, sandy tannins. Char and graphite accents build and linger on the finish. (2021). 

Winemaker Description 

Iconoclast Cabernet Sauvignon is artisanally crafted with bold, bright dark fruit flavors and hints of baking spice from 20 months of French oak aging. The wine expresses a lush texture with a long, smooth finish. Iconoclast Cabernet is a wine that epitomizes Napa Valley Cabernets.

The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a deep ruby red with purple hues on the rim. On the nose, aromas of ripe plums and cherries, powdered cocoa and a hint of mint and tobacco leaf. On the palate it is medium bodied with rich fruit on the front palate and lots freshness, bright acidity and a smooth and long satisfying finish.

Winemaker Description 

2023 'L’Après-Midi' (The Afternoon) was named in honor of the pleasures of a slow and lazy afternoon, which according to Sir Peter is a good time to start enjoying this wine. This is one of our two estate-grown Sauvignon Blanc/Sémillon blends.

The grapes are grown alongside our red Bordeaux varietals within Les Pavots Vineyard, benefiting from the steep slopes, excellent drainage, and cool air at altitude. The wine is whole-cluster-pressed and then naturally fermented in a barrel, forgoing a second malolactic fermentation to preserve the fruity and zesty character of the Sauvignon Blanc. It is predominantly made from Sauvignon Blanc, with just a touch of Sémillon.

Winemaker Description

The 2021 Merlot has inviting aromas of dark fruit and spice which translate well at first sip. Flavors of cherry, blueberry, and vanilla carry through the palate. Velvety tannins come from behind to give this Merlot a smooth, polished finish. 

Expert Reviews

Elaine Chukan Brown of the Wine Enthusiast writes 94 Points | Flavors of ginger, rose, pomegranate and citrus show on the palate, with racy acidity and a long, creamy finish. A classic blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this sparkling rosé is poised, refreshing and intriguing. Delicious.

Winemaker Description 

More than 250 years ago, Louis XV’s great paramour, Madame de la Pompadour, famously introduced sparkling wine to the court at Versailles. She declared it “the only wine that a woman can drink and remain beautiful,” and today Domaine Carneros’ Pompadour Brut Rosé is named in her honor.

Domaine Carneros harvests estate-grown, green certified Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes from its vineyards in Carneros to craft small quantities of this beautifully balanced Brut Rosé. The Pinot Noir juice spends several days in contact with the grape skins in order to extract the lovely color and flavor components. In some years a small amount of estate Pinot Noir wine is added to adjust the color when needed.

Winemaker Description 

Woodbridge Chardonnay White Wine unveils aromas of pear complemented by subtle oak and cinnamon. This California chardonnay wine's light to medium body and vibrant acidity showcase characteristic flavors of peach and apple, leading to a toasty finish with vanilla oak notes. Grapes in this California white wine are sourced from vineyards where warm days and cool breezes permit the grapes to mature fully for nicely balanced, well-rounded flavor. Oak aging on the lees further enriches the texture and complexity of this Woodbridge Wine by Robert Mondavi, conveniently packaged in four single-serving mini wine cans that are ideal for sharing. 

Pair this fresh yet silky chardonnay wine with light appetizers, as well as hearty dishes like roast chicken with white truffle risotto, or take time to indulge, enjoying a glass of wine on its own. For best flavor, chill these 187 mL cans of wine for two to two and a half hours before serving at approximately 50 degrees. Winner of multiple Wine Enthusiast BEST BUY awards since 2011, Woodbridge is Wine Your Way. Please enjoy our wines responsibly. © 2022 Woodbridge Winery, Acampo, CA

Winemaker Description 

Named for the rare gemstone, Topaz Impérial shows a pinkish-peach hue. Pronounced aromas of white flowers and mandarin intermingle with hints of cantaloupe and nectarine. Flavors of hibiscus meld with ripe strawberry and white cherry, while a creamy mousse leads to a concentrated palate. Delicate and persistent, its fine bubbles compose a harmonious ballet. Producer Description. 

Winemaker Description 

The 2022 DAOU Chardonnay displays a rich, ample nose of pineapple, vanilla bean, mango, hazelnut and nutmeg spice. Floral tones of honeysuckle and star jasmine are accented by sweet ginger and lemon zest. The palate is weighty and mouth-filling, delivering round, silky flavors of Bartlett pear, Crenshaw melon, kiwi and fresh pineapple.

Notes of Golden Delicious apple and papaya are complemented with lemon cream pie and crushed almonds, while hints of white peach, citrus peel and cinnamon linger on a long, graceful finish. Winemaker Description. 

Winemaker Description

Fresh, bright berry fruit form our heritage Russian River vineyard, combined with the ripe, peppery jam from their Alexander Valley and Dry Creek vineyards, make for a wonderful diversity of flavor, showcasing the best that Zinfandel can offer. This wine boasts notes of blackberry, plum and boysenberry with a touch of red fruit jam and creamy vanilla.

Enjoy this Zinfandel now with spiced short ribs, pulled pork sandwiches or a barbeque chicken pizza.

Light, crisp and fruity. Winemaker Description. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2021 

Winemaker Description 

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 92 Points  | Lively aromas and inviting flavors of mixed tropical fruits, wild grasses and wet stones make this wine mouthwatering and inviting through a lengthy finish. (2022). 

Winemaker Description 

The 2022 AVETA Sauvignon Blanc offers fragrant aromas of grapefruit, lemongrass, citrus, lychee and orange blossom. The wine is bright and lively on the palate with a thirst-quenching acidity and pure flavors of mandarin orange and honeysuckle that lead to a lasting aftertaste.

Try pairing AVETA with fresh fish ceviche, crab cakes or grilled oysters with mignonette sauce.

Winemaker Notes

This is a juicy, medium-bodied Pinot Noir with hints of cherry cola, raspberry and clove aromas followed by bright, crisp flavors of pomegranate, Queen Anne cherry and a touch of licorice.

Pairs well with salmon, roast chicken, grilled vegetables and light pasta dishes.

Winemaker Description

Medium dry with a full body. Blended and aged for a mellow, nutty flavor. 

Winemaker Description

Chateau Ste. Michelle Columbia Valley Chardonnay is crafted in a fresh, soft style with juicy citrus and apple fruit character with subtle spice and oak nuances. We blend Chardonnay grapes from vineyards throughout Washington’s Columbia Valley to create this complex yet approachable, food-friendly style. Winemaker Description. 

Winemaker Description

The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic expression of Dalla Valle's unique terroir. The iron rich, core stone volcanic site comprised of Andesitic Basalt bring beautiful concentration and elegance to the wines each vintage. The 2020 is comprised of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, always 100% estate blend. Notes of perfumed violet and bergamot on the nose harmonize with aromas of allspice and cassis. On the first sip you will find rich notes of blackberry, cocoa powder and cedar box carried by the undercurrent of plush and elegant tannins. An elongated finish allows you to experience the full complexities of this wine, which will have a long life ahead. 

Expert Reviews

96 Points James Suckling | So much blackberry and lead-pencil shavings. Hints of tar, too. Full-to medium-bodied with extremely well-crafted tannins that run the length of the wine. Hints of oak at the end, but this will come together nicely with bottle age. Slightly chewy now. Some salted caramel. (2020). 

95 Points Robert Parker | Black cherries, dark loam and cassis appear on the nose of Dalla Valle's 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate, joined by hints of cedar and vanilla. It's medium to full-bodied, firm, tannic and sturdy but essentially ripe, with a softness to its structure that suggests early accessibility. The long, mocha-tinged finish lingers elegantly, a delicious capstone to a super wine.

94 Points Jeb Dunnuck | The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is a solid step up, boasting a deep purple color as well as a brilliant bouquet of crème de cassis, graphite, liquid violets, and nicely integrated background oak. A blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc, it hits the palate with medium to full body, ripe, polished tannins, and a great finish. It's up with the top wines I've tasted in the vintage.

93 Points Wine Spectator | This has showy violet, boysenberry and sweet bay leaf notes that leap to the fore, with good juicy energy tucked inside the core. Offers nice flow on the finish, which picks up a loamy accent while the fruit keeps the upper hand. Drink now through 2035. (2020). 

Expert Reviews

Decanter 98 Points | Screaming Eagle’s ‘The Flight’ is positively gorgeous in 2020, leading with a plethora of perfumed violets and wild herb notes intermixed with graphite and cedarwood spices. Mediym-bodied offering a purity of redberry fruit flavours redolent of cranberry and raspberry alongside dark cherry, all framed by tantalising acidity. The crunchy red fruit is balanced by a dazzling minerality, opening up to reveal blood orange, brown spices, spearmint, and pops of lovely blue floral notes. Broad tannins build in stature on the long, sanguine finish.

James Suckling 98 Points | Aromas of blackberries, red and black currants. Green olives, too. Dark roses and perfume. Medium-bodied with super crunchy energy and brightness. Very fine tannins. Elegant and precise. So subtle and complex, it’s really something...Needs four to five years to open and come together.

Winemaker Description

This Zinfandel-based red blend jumps out of the glass with lovely bright plum fruit. Dark and focused with notes of briar patch and black tea, this wine strikes a perfect balance between fruit forward enjoyment and layered sophistication. Medium bodied, with a mouth of sweet spice, velvety tannins, and electric vibrancy this wine pairs with almost any meal or occasion.

Expert Rating

93 Points Robert Parker | The NV Old Vine Red Lot 74 is primarily Zinfandel, with some Syrah, Petite Sirah, Carignan, Grenache and Barbera. Spicy and easy to drink, it has aromas of red and black cherries, mint, bitter chocolate and allspice with earthy undertones. The medium-bodied palate is finely chalky and refreshing, with spicy fruit and an easygoing finish.

Winemaker Description 

From grain to glass we obsess over every detail of handcrafting  Supergay vodka. Supergay is made from 100% organic corn, from local producers. Supergay is handcrafted in small batches and filtered through activated coconut charcoal to  create a distinctively smooth  and clean vodka that mixes perfectly in cocktails, and is  equally delicious on the rocks.  Born from the belief that craft spirits should have more fun, Supergay Spirits was  established in 2019.

Winemaker Description

This single-vineyard Bordeaux blend presents intense aromas of both black and red currants, classic peonies, and earth with subtle hints of graphite and mint. Flavors of mocha, nutmeg, and thyme are featured prominently on the elegantly structured frame. The palate is adorned with baking spices, wild berries, and fine-grained tannins that carry through to a robust and perfectly balanced finish. 

Expert Reviews

94 Points James Suckling | Blackberry, black pepper, mulberry and leather on the nose. Full-bodied with fine tannins. On the palate, it’s fresher and more red-fruited than the nose let on. Balanced acidity and good depth. A little toasted and well spiced. This will age nicely. 60% cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot, 10% malbec and 5% cabernet franc. Sustainable. Best after 2024. (2019).

93 Points Vinous | Dusty and floral in the glass, the 2019 Apogee Pepper Bridge Vineyard shows masses of black berry fruits, earth, sawdust and tobacco. This is cool-toned and silky in feel, yet quickly gains in tension, as tactile wild berry and minerals saturate the palate. The 2019 finishes structured yet with a mentholated freshness to balance, as hints of mocha and exotic spice slowly fade. This is a vintage for the cellar. The Apogee is a compelling blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 10% Malbec and 5% Cabernet Franc that’s refined for 22 months in 40% French oak. Rating: 93+

92 Points Wine Spectator | Broad-shouldered yet refined, with currant, stony mineral and licorice flavors that take on structure and tension toward medium-grained tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2030. 1,030 cases made. (2019). 

Winemaker Description

We fermented half of the grapes on their skins for 12 days, resulting a rich and textured wine, while pressing the other half immediately to bring freshness and verve. Viscous and layered with notes of  lemon pith, golden apple, dried pineapple, beeswax and hay. Best served at cool cellar temperature.Aged in in concrete egg, clay amphora, neutral oak and stainless steel. 

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

89 Points Wine Enthusiast | A humid tropical night, complete with the necessary talc, manifests itself in these aromas, with plenty of bananas and passion fruit. Pineapple and lemon flavors are joined by traces of wets slate and apricot-flavored fruit leather. The clean, brisk mouthfeel is a tad chalky.