For this round of wine reviews , we asked our national panel of experts to recommend some of their favorite American wines . 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

( 97 ) Alexander Valley Vineyard ASR Petite Sirah 2018 ( CA ). Kevin Hall showcases his passion for small lot projects ( 568 6-btl . cases ) with this special offering . This second vintage is sourced from two special lots that were grafted over to old headpruned vines in hillside and valley floor sites . Almost perfect growing conditions yielded perfect fruit . Hand harvested , then soaked for 24 hours , yeast inoculated and then punched down for maximum color and fruit extraction . After vinification , the wine was aged in a 20-month oak-barrel program . Inky , dark and perfumed , with blue fruit berries dominating on the nose . Balanced acidity , with hints of vanilla and dark chocolate lead to a smooth , lingering finish . I just love experiments that turn out like this ! ($ 49.99 )

( 96 ) Alexander Valley Vineyards Estate Chardonnay 2020 ( CA ). Cool climate is the place for chardonnay , and the Russian River Valley in Sonoma certainly delivers . Estate fruit combines with the best winemaking techniques : night harvesting , cold fermentation , judicious program for oak aging and malolactic fermentation . A subtle addition of viognier , and you wind up with a very balanced wine with great body . Citrus notes on the nose yield to soft pear notes on the finish . Great value for the money , and the perfect complement to pasta with shrimp in a cream sauce . ($ 21.99 )

( 96 ) Canvasback Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 ( WA ). Canvasback reflects the Washington State portion of the Duckhorn portfolio . Sourcing from the famed Red Mountain appellation virtually guarantees exceptional

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