GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

95

Beringer 2023 “Rhine House Cuvée” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($60)

With 82% Cabernet Sauvignon and fractions of Tempranillo, Charbono, Merlot, and Petite Sirah, this beauty is silky and approachable: a love letter in a glass. Plush cherries and blueberries beckon, with back notes of red licorice and vanilla cedar.

95

BV 2023 “Bond 71” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($60)

A blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 4% Malbec, 4% Petite Sirah, and 3% other reds aged six months in 30% new French oak. Black raspberry, fennel, and dark chocolate are staged on a beefy platform. Tannins are sturdy yet supple, offering a gateway to graphite and cigar leaf. Luxurious, with juicy, ripe cassis on the finish.

89

Calculated 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, CA ($14)

A rustic red, with grainy tannins that hold up notes of black cherry and plum skin.

91

California Press 2023 Zinfandel, CA ($14)

A sheath of mocha covers ripe, wild strawberries and baking spices. Incredibly silky as it glides across the palate. This is Zinfandel as an elegant contender.

93

California Press 2024 Chardonnay, CA ($17)

Crushed stone meets lemon drop purity, for a lithe and lovely sipper. One can taste the pedigree here; its vivid notes of pineapple and white tea flowers are radiant.

92

Crossbow 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County ($24)

Distinguished character, with plush, approachable tannins. Dark chocolate melds with garden herbs, flint, and black currant. The long finish offers ripe black fruit and a touch of sandalwood.

93

Daou 2024 Frame of Mind Pessimist Red Blend, Paso Robles ($20)

This French-oak aged blend of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and Syrah is elegant and powerful, with stunning aromas and flavors of blueberry, violets, and dark chocolate. Streamlined and well built.

92

Daou 2025 Frame of Mind Optimist Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast ($20)

My glass was certainly more than half full for this outstanding white. Jasmine and apricot nectar are shiny, flavorful, and aromatic. Grassy notes evolve at mid-point, with thyme, basil, and grapefruit keeping us on our toes.