For this round of wine reviews , we asked our national panel of experts to recommend some of their best wines in 2022 . As always , these selections include brief tasting notes , a rating and the wine ’ s retail price , which can vary from store to store and market to market . Unless noted otherwise , the price reflects a 750-ml . bottle .

FIVE STARS

( 98 ) Alexander Valley Vineyards Cyrus 2017 ( CA ). Five classic varietals for a Bordeaux blend are selected from nine of their best estate lots . Each lot was fermented and aged separately for 12 months , then aged an additional 12 months after the blending process in French oak . The result is a beguiling puzzle that pulls you in all the right directions — unctuous , complex , rich and balanced — all perfectly done and in complete harmony . Flavors of dark chocolate , black fruits complement the rich oak and vanilla notes . Saved this for a petite filet dinner , with garlic mashers and creamed spinach — who needs dessert ! ($ 75 )

( 97 ) Nicolas Joly Savennieres Les Vieux 2019 Chenin Blanc ( France ). This is not your everyday sipper . Organic and made from select ancient vines . Complex , with honeyed stone fruits laden with zesty citrus and light spice . Fresh almond and flint with a creamy texture and long lush finish . It should age well for at least 10 years . Enjoy with seared curried scallops . ($ 75 )

( 97 ) Jean-Michel Guillon & Fils Les Crais Gevrey- Chambertin 2018 ( France ). A seductive wine that opens with aromas of wildflowers and red fruits . The palate is overwhelmed with gorgeous flavors of sage-dusted raspberry , ripe plum and the gentlest caress of dark chocolate . A hint of earthiness on the generous finish completes the mission . ($ 69.99 )

( 97 ) Alexander Valley Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 ( CA ). I decided to repeat my experiment from before

14 | SPRING 2023 • CHEERS @ HOME WWW . CHEERSONLINEATHOME . COM