Top 100 Wine Spectator 1991

Destasque para a excelente safra de 1988 em Bordeaux!

Top 100 Wines of 1991 

Rank Wine Vintage Score Release Price

1  Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape 1989 97 $35

Perhaps the greatest Beaucastel ever produced. Has the class and structure of a great vintage of Mouton-Rothschild. Deep, inky in color, with intense herb, plum, game and spice aromas, this full-bodied wine has an explosion of fruit and an iron backbone. Try the beginning of next century.--Châteauneuf-du-Pape retrospective. Best from 1995 through 2005. 25,000 cases made. –JS Country: Region: France Southern Rhône

2  Château Mouton-Rothschild Pauillac 1988 100 $0

A magnificent wine that's ripe, powerful, seductive and amazingly deep. Massively concentrated and bursting with currant, plum, berry, cedar, chocolate and all sorts of exotic spice flavors, yet it keeps its balance, never going to excess. Lingers on the finish for minutes. A classic. Best from 2000 through 2010. 20,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

3  Caymus Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Special Selection 1987 98 $60

A smashing wine, following in the wake of the great ones in 1984, '85 and '86. Bursting with cherry, plum and prune flavors. Coffee, anise, cedar and tea notes sneak in on the long, complex finish. Intense, but gentle, with tannins rapidly smoothing to a velvety texture. Almost drinkable now. Best from 1996 through 2000. 4,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

4  Château Lagrange St.-Julien 1988 96 $30

A deep, rich, complex and concentrated wine, with wonderfully complex aromas and intense, sharply focused currant, spice, plum, and black cherry flavors that unfold gently on the palate before the supple tannins wrap around the finish. Simply delicious, but should peak between 1998 and 2004.  – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

5  Tenuta San Guido Sassicaia 1988 98 $50

The stuff that dreams are made of; the greatest Sassicaia ever produced. Has laser-guided flavors and structure. The pure cassis aromas have hints of mint and berries. Full-bodied, with a monumental structure of cassis, mint and vanilla flavors, full, supple tannins and a super-long finish. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 1997 through 2000.  – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

6  Château Margaux Margaux 1988 97 $80

Elegant, complex, seductive and beautifully balanced, with gorgeous plum, raspberry, currant and cedar aromas that hint at all sorts of exotic spices and chocolate on the exceedingly long, smoky finish. A classic, smoothly integrated wine that has the balance to develop well past 2000. 25,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

7  Château Haut-Brion Pessac-Léognan 1988 98 $110

Amazingly harmonious, complex and supple, with intense, generous plum, currant, spice, cedar, cherry, and anise flavors that have a wonderful sense of finesse and grace. The tannins are intense, yet graceful, allowing the flavors to pour through on the finish. Best to cellar from 2001 to 2009.  – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

8  Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1987 95 $30

Deep, ripe and powerful, with muscular currant, plum, anise and cherry flavors that are complex and concentrated. This rough-hewn style is focused and intense, with the kind of thick, tight tannins that may require cellaring. Best after 1997. 7,200 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

9  Château Pichon-Longueville-Baron Pauillac 1988 95 $40

A muscular, fleshy, full-throttle Bordeaux, packed with plum, currant and anise flavors. Perhaps a bit hot on the finish but generous and concentrated, with nicely integrated tannins; balanced overall for the long haul. Give it until at least 1999 to 2005 for optimum enjoyment. 14,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

10  Château Lynch-Bages Pauillac 1988 95 $40

Deep and dark in color, rich and aromatic, with complex, intense, concentrated black cherry, currant, cedar and spice flavors that have grace and finesse. The flavors echo floral, toasty notes and keep building on the finish. Has a smooth, supple texture and plenty of fine tannins for cellaring through 1998.  – Country: Region:
France Bordeaux

11  Dr. Bürklin-Wolf Riesling Auslese Pfalz Wachenheimer Gerümpel 1989 95 $34

Very sweet and rich, like syrup. Beerenauslese quality. Light gold in color; honey, spice and nectarine aromas; full-bodied and sweet, with syrup, honey, spice and nectarine flavors, medium acidity and a spicy finish. Drinkable now.  – Country: Region: Germany Germany

12  The Hess Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Reserve 1987 96 $34

Massively flavorful, with chewy tannins and gobs of currant, plum, blackberry and cedar aromas and flavors, echoing anise and other spices on the long finish. Enormously fruity, with smoothly integrated tannins that should be marvelous around 1996 to 1998. 700 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

13  Domaine d'Auvenay Meursault Les Narvaux 1989 96 $60

This is to beg or kill for. Tastes like nectar, with captivating aromas of lilacs, honey, butter and melon. Full-bodied, with multidimensional flavors and toasted notes. Superbly long on the finish. From Lalou Bize-Leroy. Drink now to 1996.  – Country: Region: France Burgundy

14  Château Palmer Margaux 1988 96 $50

A definition of finesse. So opulent and seductive that the smoothness and delicacy of the texture come almost as a surprise. Explosive blackberry, currant, plum and vanilla aromas are only the beginning, and the subtle echoes of fruit and spice carry over on the featherlight finish. Tannins are beautifully integrated. Should keep improving past 2000. 16,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

15  Joseph Drouhin Corton-Charlemagne 1989 97 $92

A masterpiece, with magnificent flavors and structure. Full-bodied, with subtle yet intense straw, earth, lemon and apple aromas. Has superbly balanced, intense flavors and a sublime backbone of acidity. Drink now to 1998.  – Country: Region: France Burgundy

16  Domaine d'Auvenay Puligny-Montrachet Les Folatières 1989 97 $95

There isn't much more you could want in white Burgundy; lemon, butter, toast, hazelnut, ripe apple--the list of characteristics goes on and on. Massive, yet superbly balanced, with great finesse. From Lalou Bize-Leroy. Drink now to 1998.  – Country: Region: France Burgundy

17  Louis Jadot Chambertin-Clos de Bèze 1988 96 $97

An elegant, dynamic wine, with beautifully focused black cherry, currant and toast aromas and flavors that sail across the palate on a smooth structure, echoing on the long finish. A harmonious, gloriously flavorful wine that should be at its best after 1995. 350 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

18  Domaine de Marcoux Châteauneuf-du-Pape Vieilles Vignes 1989 95 $30

A huge wine. Deep colored, with chocolate-covered cherry aromas and bitter chocolate and cassis flavors. Full-bodied and amazingly concentrated, like crushed grapes. Still like a barrel sample; drink next century.--Châteauneuf-du-Pape retrospective. Best from 2000 through 2010.  –JS Country: Region: France Southern Rhône

19  Woodward Canyon Charbonneau Red Walla Walla County 1988 95 $26

A very seductive, supple, flavorful Washington red. Spicy oak wraps around a solid core of ripe cherry, currant, and herb flavors. The tannins are abundant, but soft. Tempting now, but could hold until 1997 or beyond. 59 percent Merlot and 41 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. 404 cases made. – Country: Region:
Washington Washington

20  The Hess Collection Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1987 94 $17

Strikes a pleasant balance between the opulent, ripe, rich currant and black cherry flavors and the herb and lavish oak notes. Deep, plush and concentrated, with a long, full finish. The firm tannins remind you that this is a young '87; best to cellar this until 1996 or '97. 10,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

21  Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Signature Reserve 1987 94 $18

The best Chappellet Cabernet in years. Focused and chewy, with powerful currant and berry aromas and flavors shaded by hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and bay leaf, all wrapped in a tight package that should require until 1998 to 2000 to settle all the tannins. 4,900 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

22  Dr. Bürklin-Wolf Riesling Auslese Pfalz Forster Pechstein 1989 94 $25

Undeveloped now, but very rich nonetheless. Light apricot and lemon aromas; full-bodied, with honey, lemon, spice and botrytis flavors. Excellent acidity and finish.  – Country: Region: Germany Germany

23  Fontodi Chianti Classico Riserva 1985 93 $16

A wine supercharged with fine fruit and an excellent backbone of tannins and acidity. Has stunning aromas of blackberry, cedar, cassis and mint, and a crisp finish. Ready to drink now, but it will improve.  – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

24  Quail Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 1987 93 $16

A big, rich, chewy wine, packed with concentrated cherry, plum, chocolate, cedar and smoke flavors that are tight and complex. Jams in lots of everything, including oak and tannin. Let this one mellow out until 1997. 2,200 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

25  Meridian Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 1988 92 $12

A great value. Smooth and generous, this ripe wine has marvelous currant and plum flavors and an overlay of rich chocolate and spice notes. Supple, flavorful and utterly charming, with flavor to burn. Drinkable now. 4,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California South Coast

26  Hogue Merlot Washington 1989 92 $12

An exciting wine at a good price. Crisp, bright and concentrated, with sharply focused blueberry, currant and raspberry aromas and flavors that gush across the palate. Delicious to drink now, but has the structure and power to age gracefully well into th 7,700 cases made. – Country: Region: Washington Washington

27  Leonetti Merlot Washington 1989 93 $18

Rich, supple and generous, with lavish oak, herb, chocolate, plum and currant flavors that gently unfold on the palate. The tannins are firm but round, making this a delicious wine to enjoy now or keep in the cellar. 900 cases made. – Country: Region: Washington Washington

28  Lucien & André Brunel Châteauneuf-du-Pape Les Cailloux 1989 93 $16

Impressively well crafted and subtle. Like Cheval Blanc; has great finesse and pure fruit. Grapey, raisiny and earthy on the nose and palate, with well-integrated tannins and a focused, grapey, gamy finish.--Châteauneuf-du-Pape retrospective. Best from 1994 through 1996.  –JS Country: Region: France Southern Rhône

29  Egon Müller Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Scharzhofberger 1989 94 $31

 – Country: Region: Germany Germany

30  Château Larrivet-Haut-Brion Pessac-Léognan 1988 94 $25

Dense, ripe and concentrated, with intense, rich currant, blackberry, anise and vanilla flavors that are tight and sharply focused. The well-defined flavors stay with you. Sturdy, with firm tannins and excellent length. Best between 2000 to 2005. 7,600 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

31  Château Clerc Milon Pauillac 1988 94 $26

Powerful, remaining graceful enough to present a plush assortment of plum, black cherry and currant flavors shaded by a touch of cedar and spice. The tannins are well integrated, and it's toasty and warm on the finish. Give it until 2000 to settle down. 8,700 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

32  Château Pavie-Decesse St.-Emilion 1988 94 $27

Brilliantly concentrated from beginning to end; oozing with black cherry, currant, plum and anise aromas and flavors that are focused and elegant on the long finish. The tannins are sufficiently integrated to make it drinkable now with hearty food, but it's tough enough to need until 1996 to 2000 to settle down. 4,500 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

33  Daniel Rion & Fils Nuits-St.-Georges Les Lavières 1988 93 $33

Powerful, rich aromas and flavors of plum, raspberry and nutmeg carry through this mouthfilling, dramatic wine. The broad range of flavors persists on the long finish, and it has a modest level of well-integrated tannins to shed in the cellar. Best after 1993. 750 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

34  Château Haut-Bailly Pessac-Léognan 1988 94 $35

Enormously thick, dense and tannic, this subtle Bordeaux is rich, intense and deeply concentrated, with layers of currant, cedar, spice and vanilla flavors that unfold gently on the palate. Needs cellaring until 2000.  – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

35  Jean Gros Vosne-Romanée Clos des Réas 1988 94 $50

Flavorful, graceful and elegant, this beautifully proportioned wine balances plum, raspberry and strawberry flavors against nuances of oak, offering depth and power at the same time. Stash away until 1995 and watch it develop into a beauty. 1,100 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

36  Geyser Peak Johannisberg Riesling Mendocino County Late Harvest Selected Dried Berry 1990 93 $13

Ripe, spicy and balanced, an elegant dessert wine just oozing with grapefruit, honey, apricot and spice aromas and flavors that keep echoing on the long, generous finish. Drinkable now. 300 cases made. – Country: Region: California Mendocino/Lake

37  Françoise Chauvenet Meursault Genevrières 1989 94 $42

An explosion of aromas and flavors. Has mango, tropical fruit and stone aromas and electrifying apple, mineral and juniper flavors; incredibly lively on the finish. Full-bodied. Drink now to 1996.  – Country: Region: France Burgundy

38  Château Cos-d'Estournel St.-Estèphe 1988 95 $34

Big, ripe and generous, with excellent harmony of flavor, hinting at cedar, hazelnut and vanilla against a solid backdrop of blackberry and currant. Beautifully proportioned, with fine tannins and gorgeous notes. A real standout in this vintage. Drink after 1998. 30,000 cases made. –JS Country: Region: France Bordeaux

39  Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Martha's Vineyard 1986 95 $76

Incredibly concentrated, rich and powerful, but still smooth and plush. The flavors of mint, cherry, black currant and spice are deep, long and chewy, with great complexity and polish. Not for everyone, but absolutely full of flavor and beautifully structured, harmonious and complex. Very tempting to drink now, but should improve. Drink now through 2005. 6,938 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

40  Joseph Drouhin Montrachet Marquis de Laguiche 1988 95 $180

Has wonderful aromas and intense, concentrated almond, honey, pear and butter flavors that are tightly reined in now and in need of cellaring. Picks up toast, butter and layers of fruit on the powerful aftertaste. Drink now to 1996 and perhaps beyond.  – Country: Region: France Burgundy

41  Dunn Cabernet Sauvignon Howell Mountain 1987 94 $36

Offers a massive concentration of rich currant, cherry, mineral and cedar flavors and finishes with rich, chewy tannins. Uncommonly deep in color, with excellent depth and dimension. Has a long, complex finish, but it's tightly wound and will require cellaring. 2,200 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

42  Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Private Reserve 1987 94 $40

Complex, fascinating and beautifully built. Deep currant, cherry, anise, leather, earth and herbal notes vie for attention. It shows a different facet with every sip. The tannins are firm and powerful without being overwhelming. Best to wait until 1998. 15,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

43  Méo-Camuzet Vosne-Romanée Au Cros Parantoux 1989 95 $91

Polished, elegant and beautifully spicy, a seductive wine, with a satiny texture and oodles of currant, plum and strawberry flavors that fan out across the palate and keep harmonizing on the finish. Well-integrated oak and tannin components should keep this going for some time. Drink now through 1999. 100 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

44  Nobilo Chardonnay Gisborne Tietjen Vineyard Reserve 1989 93 $18

Buttery and flavorful, with a smooth, almost unctuous texture, dripping with honey and butterscotch notes but weighing in with distinctive pear and pineapple flavors that persist into the finish. This wine evolves on the palate, offering different dimensions of flavor. 4,800 cases made. – Country: Region: New Zealand New Zealand

45  Philippe Pichon Condrieu 1989 94 $45

Ripe, rich and seductive, a plush pillow of a wine, with all sorts of apricot, honey, hazelnut, vanilla and floral aromas and flavors that keep taking turns as it extends into a long, long finish. An exotic, substantial wine that offers plenty of pleasure.  – Country: Region: France Northern Rhône

46  Tenuta dell'Ornellaia Ornellaia 1988 94 $49

Silky and refined, like a fine Italian silk scarf. This full-bodied wine is deeply colored, with tar, mint and blackberry aromas, mint and blackberry flavors and a wonderful balance of exquisite tannins and firm acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc.  – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

47  Chartron & Trébuchet Chassagne-Montrachet Morgeot 1989 94 $54

Elegant and stylish, with intense butter, spice and pear flavors and hints of orange and vanilla. Has great depth and amplitude, revealing layers of flavor and texture with each sip. Amazingly subtle and fruity, with beautifully defined flavors. Delicious. 500 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

48  Château Marbuzet St.-Estèphe 1988 92 $17

Full-bodied and flavorful, with generous, concentrated plum, currant, cedar and anise aromas and flavors shaded by classy oak notes and fine tannins. Can develop well through 1995 to '99 at least. 10,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

49  Markham Chardonnay Napa Valley 1989 92 $12

This lively, intense style is light enough on its feet to let the grapefruit, nutmeg and vanilla flavors extend over a long finish. Beautifully balanced, with nice pineapple and floral overtones. Drinkable now. 10,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

50  Louis Jadot Beaune Les Boucherottes 1988 92 $33

Remarkably charming and elegant, with ripe, rich cherry, tea, raspberry and spicy oak flavors that spread out on the palate. The tannins are very fine and well integrated, and the crisp acidity lends life to the flavors on the finish. Persistent from sta 625 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

51  Les Fiefs de Lagrange St.-Julien 1988 92 $17

Elegant and restrained, with pretty, rich, concentrated currant, herb, vanilla and chocolate flavors that gently unfold on the palate, finishing with rich, round, smooth and intense tannins and flavors that linger. Best to cellar until 1998 to 2004.  – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

52  François Legros Chambolle-Musigny Les Noirots 1989 92 $30

A seductive style, with deep, rich, complex raspberry, strawberry, anise and toasty oak flavors that are engagingly silky and long on the finish. Drink now through 1996. 200 cases made. – Country: Region:
France Burgundy

53  Château de France Pessac-Léognan 1988 92 $18

A pleasant surprise. Lots of bright, lively cherry, raspberry and currant aromas and flavors pervade this beautifully balanced, harmonious wine. The tannins are integrated into the whole structure, turning smooth and elegant on the finish. Tempting now, 16,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

54  Chateau St. Jean Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley 1987 92 $16

Elegant and lively, with a deep concentration of ripe, rich plum, cherry, currant and spice flavors and pretty oak shadings that echo toast and spice notes. Supple enough to drink now, but it has deceptively firm tannins and crisp acidity that bode well for cellearing. Drink from 1994 to 2000. 7,469 cases made. – Country: Region: California Sonoma

55  Ca' del Bosco Maurizio Zanella 1988 93 $32

Rich, ripe, round and generous, with a marvelous interplay of oak and plum, currant and cherry aromas and flavors. A spicy finish brings it home smoothly, and the tannins are well integrated. Almost drinkable now, but has the structure to age gracefully. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Drink now through 1994. 1,400 cases made. – Country: Region: Italy Lombardy

56  Revere Chardonnay Napa Valley Reserve 1988 93 $18

Layers of smoke, vanilla, spice and pear flavors build up and linger on the finish of this toasty, complex, but very young wine that will need until 1995 to loosen up and show its best flavors. Tastes like it will be very elegant when it matures. 2,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

57  Rossignol-Février Volnay 1988 92 $32

Tight, lean, intense and concentrated, with pretty aromas and a solid core of black cherry, currant, berry and raspberry flavors tightly wrapped in firm tannins. A keeper; will probably reach maturity in 1995 or '96. 185 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

58  Latah Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Washington Limited Bottling 1988 91 $13

Focused and flavorful, a solid mouthful of currant, berry and spice flavors echoing anise and vanilla on the crisp finish. The tannins are balanced for aging from now through '95. 512 cases made. – Country: Region:
Washington Washington

59  Chopin-Groffier Vougeot 1988 92 $32

Ripe and generous, with lots of blackberry and black cherry aromas and flavors shaded by smoke, nutmeg and a delicate touch of earthiness. Has the intensity and complexity to age well; keep until 1995 to '97. Reasonably priced; not the grand cru. 200 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

60  Latah Creek Merlot Washington Limited Bottling 1989 91 $11

Effusively fruity, with layers of ripe, rich, concentrated blackberry, raspberry, cherry and currant flavors that border on being jammy. The tannins are supple, but sufficient to sustain it another five to 10 years. Drink now through 2000. 1,250 cases made. – Country: Region: Washington Washington

61  Joseph Drouhin Morey-St.-Denis Monts Luisants 1988 92 $38

This lively, beautifully focused wine is bursting with delicious plum, raspberry and blackberry aromas and flavors, with a slight meaty edge that adds depth and richness. The flavors echo on a long finish. Approaching drinkability, but try to hold off until 1994 or '95.  – Country: Region: France Burgundy

62  Poggio Antico Brunello di Montalcino Riserva 1985 93 $55

Intense and lively, with layers of rich raspberry, cedar, anise, plum and coffee flavors that are well integrated, with complexity and finesse. Not overly tannic, and it has a long, lingering finish. Best to cellar until 1996. 900 cases made. – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

63  Woodward Canyon Chardonnay Columbia Valley 1990 93 $19

Silky, complex and very Burgundian in style. Smells very toasty and buttery, with rich, almost unctuous pear, butterscotch and spice flavors accented by hazelnut, honey and cream notes. The flavors linger a long time on the finish. 1,553 cases made. – Country: Region: Washington Washington

64  Isole e Olena Cepparello 1988 93 $32

Subtle on the nose, with elegant blackberry, cherry and licorice aromas, but chewy and powerful on the palate. Excellent potential for cellaring. Full-bodied, with ripe, rich fruit and highly extracted tannins, but shows great elegance. Made from Sangiovese. 2,000 cases made. – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

65  J.-C. Pichot Vouvray Domaine Le Peu de la Moriette 1989 90 $12

Strikingly fruity and grassy, with rich, concentrated flavors of apple, custard and vanilla. Off-dry, but balanced, with remarkably lively, complex flavors that hint at grapefruit and honey on the finish. Drink now through 1993. 5,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Loire

66  Woodward Canyon Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley 1988 93 $24

Firm, beautifully structured and rich, with ripe plum, black cherry and anise flavors. A frame of crisp acidity and firm tannins gives this Washington wine a taut balance. Cellar until at least 1995 to 1998 for optimum enjoyment. Classy oak notes linger on the finish. 1,504 cases made. – Country: Region: Washington Washington

67  Château de Meursault Meursault 1986 94 $55

Rich, bold and flavorful, showing lots of concentration, but maintaining smoothness and elegance, too. Earthy, creamy butterscotch notes accent the ripe pear and apple flavors. Mature and delicious now, but could be aged until at least 1996. 2,500 cases made. – Country: Region: France Burgundy

68  Paul Jaboulet Aîné Hermitage La Chapelle 1989 93 $55

Jam-packed with ripe, rich plum, currant, black cherry and anise flavors that turn to chocolate and toast on the finish. A beautifully focused, deeply concentrated wine that combines power with finesse. Drink now through 2000. 9,000 cases made. – Country: Region: France Northern Rhône

69  Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Oberemmeler Karlsberg 1989 92 $32

 – Country: Region: Germany Germany

70  Joh. Jos. Prüm Riesling Auslese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Wehlener Sonnenuhr 1989 92 $35

 – Country: Region: Germany Germany

71  Fetzer Johannisberg Riesling Sonoma County Late Harvest Reserve 1988 91 $10

Very ripe, lush and opulent, with rich apricot, spice and honey aromas and flavors that are long, fresh and balanced on the finish despite the high level of sweetness. Drinkable now, but should be best after 1993. A good value.  – Country: Region: California Sonoma

72  Meridian Syrah Paso Robles 1988 91 $14

Meridian's first Syrah is dense, dark and rich, with spicy, cedary, and focused blackberry and wild raspberry aromas and flavors. A tough wine with a soft heart. Long and elegant, turning complex and especially delicious on the finish. Drinkable now, but cellaring until 1994 couldn't hurt. 4,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California South Coast

73  Elio Altare Barbera d'Alba 1989 91 $13

Exuberantly fruity and flavorful, supported by crisp acidity and rich tannins, and bursting with blackberry, raspberry and currant flavors that echo on the long finish. Beautifully balanced and built . 250 cases made. –HS Country: Region: Italy Piedmont

74  Clos Du Val Cabernet Sauvignon Stags Leap District 1987 92 $17

Ripe and supple, with rich, generous plum, currant, black cherry, chocolate and spicy vanilla notes that are elegant and concentrated, offering finesse and grace. The tannins are smooth and round, and the finish is long and lingering. Drink now. 10,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

75  Valtellina Chianti Classico Giorgio Regni Riserva 1985 92 $20

A joy to drink, with exuberant fruit and a lovely texture. Superbly balanced, with intense cassis, violet and berry aromas and an excellent balance of intense cherry, cassis and black cherry flavors. Medium-bodied, with a silky texture. Drink now.  – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

76  Fontodi Chianti Classico 1988 91 $13

Classy, elegant and harmonious, with a wonderful balance of fruit. Has very fresh blackberry, tar, freshly cut mushroom, mint and fruit aromas and ripe plum and berry flavors. Full-bodied, with fine tannins and a fine finish. Drink now. 3,330 cases made. –JS Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

77  Arterberry Chardonnay Willamette Valley 1988 90 $10

448 cases made. – Country: Region: Oregon Oregon

78  Villa Cafaggio Chianti Classico Riserva 1985 91 $13

Has great concentration, built like a great Bordeaux. Deep ruby in color, with vanilla, plum, mint and berry aromas and masses of fruit. Built for aging. Drink now through 1995.  – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

79  Kenwood Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma Valley Jack London Vineyard 1987 92 $14

Smells great, and packs plenty of ripe cherry and currant flavor into the tannic structure, which bodes well for the future. Hints of spice and vanilla add nuances to the intense flavor. A deep-colored, beautifully balanced, cellar-worthy wine that should start to show all it has around 1997 to 2000. 6,000 cases made. – Country: Region: California Sonoma

80  Graham Vintage Port Malvedos 1988 93 $26

Ripe, opulent and delicious. Beautifully peppery and fruity in flavor, with a silky smooth texture that belies its high alcohol and young age. A very long finish echoes black pepper and chocolate. Tempting to drink now for its fruitiness, but probably best after 2000. 7,000 cases made. –JS Country: Region: Portugal Portugal

81  Château Haut-Bages-Avérous Pauillac 1988 93 $20

The second wine of Château Lynch-Bages is very tightly wound, with an elegant core of black cherry, herb and cedar flavors cloaked in tough but fine tannins. This is a wine with obvious style and class that will need until 1998 to 2005 to sort itself out. Not for early drinking.  – Country: Region: France Bordeaux

82  Monticello Chardonnay Napa Valley Corley Reserve 1988 92 $18

A beautiful combination of fruit and oak. Has intense, concentrated, elegant apple, pear and peach flavors neatly shaded by sweet vanilla and honey notes. Polished, long and full on the finish. A real treat. Drink now to 1994. 3,700 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

83  Rosemount Shiraz Hunter Valley 1989 91 $8

An absolutely delicious wine at a terrific price. It's rich, warm, ripe and generous, with smooth, supple spice, raspberry, blackberry and plum flavors and hints of tobacco, cedar and oak on the finish. Goes down easy. Drink now through 1994. 6,000 cases made. – Country: Region: Australia Australia

84  Calera Pinot Noir Mount Harlan Jensen 1988 92 $35

Packs in a load of fresh, ultraripe, rich black cherry, currant, herb and spicy earth overtones. Deeply flavored and very concentrated, with smooth, supple tannins and a long, full, fruity finish. A distinctive wine. Drink now through 1997. 437 cases made. – Country: Region: California Bay Area/Central Coast

85  Preston Premium Wines Chardonnay Washington Barrel Fermented 1989 91 $12

Full-bodied, complex, earthy and oaky, but the grapefruit and pear flavors come through on the rich finish. A stylish wine that gets better with each sip. Drinkable now, but should be better around 1993. 700 cases made. – Country: Region: Washington Washington

86  Kunde Estate Chardonnay Sonoma Valley 1990 91 $12

Ripe, bold and buttery, with layers of honey, pear, peach and nutmeg flavors that are rich and silky-smooth. Oak adds dimension to the flavors. A harmonious wine. Drink now. 7,800 cases made. – Country: Region:
California Sonoma

87  Rosemount Chardonnay Hunter Valley Show Reserve 1989 92 $16

4,600 cases made. – Country: Region: Australia Australia

88  Caymus Conundrum California 1990 91 $18

Fruity, spicy and complex with tiers of spicy Muscat flavors that blend in nicely with the toasty pear, mineral, nutmeg, peach and more. Hard to imagine a wine with more variety of flavor. Rich and smooth, with a long finish. 6,275 cases made. – Country: Region: California Other California

89  Château Monbrison Margaux 1988 92 $20

A fine value for a premium Bordeaux. Very flavorful, firm and fruity, with concentrated cassis, herb, cherry and tobacco flavors accented with cedar and cinnamon notes from oak aging. Very elegant and delicious; drink now through 1996. 5,500 cases made. –JS Country: Region: France Bordeaux

90  San Felice Brunello di Montalcino Campogiovanni 1986 92 $28

Lean, firm and bursting with fruit. Has strong raspberry, cherry, plum and anise flavors, and hints of vanilla and spice on the finish. Beautifully balanced, with elegance, charm and impressive length. Almost drinkable now, but best after 1995. 500 cases made. – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

91  Flora Springs Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley 1990 90 $9

One of the best Sauvignon Blancs available, and at a good price. Intense and flavorful, with creamy pear, vanilla, spice and honeyed nutmeg notes and a soft finish. A complex, ripe and smooth wine that drinks easy now to 1993. 4,500 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

92  Iron Horse Brut Sonoma County Green Valley L.D. Vrais Amis 1986 90 $25

A classy, complex sparkling wine. Bracing and crisp, but backed by lovely green apple and spice flavors that are shaded by doughy, toasty notes. Has good length on the finish, too. 700 cases made. – Country: Region:
California Sonoma

93  Reichsgraf von Kesselstatt Riesling Spätlese Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Scharzhofberger 1989 90 $13

 – Country: Region: Germany Germany

94  Rocche Costamagna Barbera d'Alba 1988 90 $12

Beautifully articulated raspberry and cherry aromas and flavors are carried on a crisp background of lively acidity, rounded out with a hint of vanilla and cedar on the nose and finish, along with a lovely echo of blackberry. Tempting to drink now, but has plenty of room to grow. Drink after 1992 or '93. 350 cases made. –HS Country: Region: Italy Piedmont

95  R.H. Phillips Syrah California EXP 1988 91 $15

Ripe, rich and opulent, with a luscious concentration of black cherry, plum and strawberry aromas and flavors and hints of pepper and smoke on the long finish. A dense, profound wine that's round in texture. Best after 1994. 835 cases made. – Country: Region: California Other California

96  Lar de Lares Tierra de Barros Gran Reserva 1982 90 $14

Distinctive, rich, mature and elegant, with plenty of spicy brown-sugar charm around a core of strawberry and raspberry flavors. Hints at leather at first, but echoes fruit on the finish. Refined and elegant. 3,500 cases made. – Country: Region: Spain Spain

97  Acacia Pinot Noir Napa Valley Carneros St. Clair Vineyard 1988 91 $20

Very firm and concentrated, with nicely modulated plum, cherry and currant aromas and flavors and sufficient tannins to hold the wine without getting in the way. Concentrated enough to develop well. Drink now through 1995. 2,588 cases made. – Country: Region: California Carneros

98  Anderson's Conn Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley Estate Reserve 1988 92 $24

Rich and supple, it's nicely shaded by oak aging, with velvety tannins and warm currant, chocolate, anise, cherry and nutmeg flavors. The fruit and spice linger nicely on the finish. Well balanced, with firm acidity and gentle tannins. Drink now. 1,371 cases made. – Country: Region: California Napa

99  Castello Banfi Brunello di Montalcino Poggio all'Oro Riserva 1985 92 $37

Has all the ripeness, richness and complexity one could ask for in a beautifully modulated, elegant package. The aromas and flavors run toward plum, spice, coffee and anise, turning toward prune on the finish. Maintains its elegance through the long, com 1,200 cases made. – Country: Region: Italy Tuscany

100  Scharffenberger Blanc de Blancs Mendocino County 1986 91 $20

Source: http://vinhosemaisvinhos.blogspot.com/2010/08/top-100-wine-spectator-1991.html