Discovering great new wines of all types from around the globe is what drives the Wine Enthusiast team of reviewers. We blind-tasted more than 23,000 bottles in the past 12 months and for The Enthusiast 100 narrowed them down to the following elite list of exceptional wines.
This year’s 100 are not simply the highest scoring bottles, nor are they the most expensive—these are wines that opened our reviewers’ eyes and stimulated their imaginations.
The Enthusiast 100 includes grape varieties from Albariño to Zinfandel grown in 14 different countries and five U.S. states. A Petite Arvine from Mendocino, California, a dry Furmint from Tokaji in Hungary and a rosé of Tempranillo from Italy, not Spain, all give an idea of the breadth of choices here.
Many are relative values: The average price is $56, with 31 of them costing $40 or less. Wine No. 1, a terrific 96-point 2019 Napa Valley Cabernet from Duckhorn, costs $105, which is one-third the cost of many similarly rated Cabs. The best effort since 2008 from Duckhorn’s Monitor Ledge Vineyard, the wine is rich in cassis and baking spices on a soothing texture.
In the No. 2 position, Ratti 2019 Barolo Serradenari from Piedmont, Italy, will age beautifully and make a brilliant addition to anyone’s collection. The same goes for the No. 3 wine, Schnaitmann 2019 Lämmler GG Dry Riesling from Germany, intensely spiced and mineral-laced.
The 97 others are wines we’re keeping our eyes on, and you should, too. Several are from new wineries, under-the-radar regions, made from unusual grape varieties or in innovative styles. The majority of them are ready to drink now and are sure to bring something palpably different and energizing to your table.
We urge you to use The Enthusiast 100 to broaden your wine-drinking horizons and bring more enjoyment to your entertaining.
Were you named in this list? Congrats! Learn more about reprints, badge licensing, plaques, posters and other opportunities here.
WE Recommend
Louis M Martini
Lot No. 1 exemplifies Martini’s legacy of producing critically acclaimed mountain-grown Cabernets. The 2019 vintage is comprised of 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from an impressive selection of high elevation and hillside sources. Its core is 40% Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet, with fruit from Mount Veeder, Howell Mountain, Coombsville and Calistoga offering strong support. This result is a rewarding tour of Napa for your palate, led by one of the valley’s most celebrated vineyards. Aged 21 months in French oak barrels (95% new). 1,390 cases produced.
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