Wines

What's behind our wine Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 116 models in wines to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This score is based mainly on expert sensory evaluations. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Varietal
Varietal refers to a specific type of grape within the genus/species Vitis vinifera. In this case one grape is known by different names in different parts of the world (e.g. Syrah or Shiraz).
Origin
Origin is the country or state (if in the US) where the wine was produced.
Style
The prominent characteristic(s) of the wine that define its "personality" e.g. fruity, woody, yeasty, vegetal, etc.

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Recommended wines

Recommended wines are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended wines

Wine buying guide

To find the wine that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Wines Ratings

Find out which Wines scored the best on our tests. Our tests are based not only on government and industry standards but also on standards our specialists think should apply, which re-create the experience you will have with the product.

Latest wine ratings

Most of the wine our wine testers taste sells for $20 a bottle or less. We also consider wines that have consistently garnered praise from others—including some wine publications—to increase the odds of finding high-quality wine. If you're looking for information about wine, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ wine reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our wine buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and wine reviews to help you choose the best wine for your needs.

Ratings & recommended wines

Cabernet sauvignon (12)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Pinot grigio (12)

Chardonnay (12)

Pinot noir (11)

Red blends (12)

Red zinfandel (10)

Reisling (8)

Rosé (10)

Sauvignon blanc (9)

Shiraz (13)

Sparkling wines (7)

Wine buying guide

Food and wine are natural partners and, when they're compatible, they can be more than the sum of their parts. The problem is finding a perfect pairing. Consumer Reports' wine experts will not only help you find the best wines at a reasonable price but can also choose the best food-and-wine combination.

To pick the right cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay, red blend, red zinfandel, rosé, sauvignon blanc, shiraz, or sparkling wine, follow our ... Read more