8 Delicious West Coast Wines to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

New reviews of tasty reds, whites, rosé and bubbly, perfect for pairing with Mexican fare and scoring up to 93 points

The exterior of Chimney Rock in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley
Napa Valley's Chimney Rock is well known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, but also produces noteworthy Bordeaux-style white wines. (Bob McClenahan)

Today is Cinco de Mayo, and while a crisp beer or tangy margarita may be at the top of your mind, consider this selection of food-friendly wines for the celebration before reaching for a typical tipple. This week's Tasting Highlights features a variety of red and white options, as well as rosé and bubbly, all well-suited for Mexican fare and with scores ranging up to 93 points.

Suppose an asada is on the agenda; deliberate over the selection of reds below. The peppery tones and vibrant strawberry and raspberry flavors in Optik's Syrah make it an excellent match for a variety of grilled meats or birria. If you're enjoying a mole, look to Kokomo Dry Creek Zinfandel 2023, a dynamic and sleek Zin with a zesty finish.

Read on to get our expert scores and full tasting notes for these wines, plus refreshing whites, a bright rosé and a sleek sparkling wine.

Tasting Highlights’ wine reviews are fresh out of the tasting room, offering a sneak peek of our editors’ most recent ratings—including scores and full tasting notes—to WineSpectator.com members.

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