Wine Reviews

98

Beau Vigne Owner’s Reserve 2022 Guest Cottage Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($250)

Fruit grown on a high elevation vineyard sports a wine at the hilt of luxury. This eye-opening Cab possesses the wow factor at every turn. Plum skin dry, supple tannins and iron-rich soil align with cassis and leather. Approachable but ultimately age-worthy. Its voluptuous profile offers a concentrated, savory finish.

94

Bec Hardy 2021 Garden Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Limestone Coast, AU ($25)

The dazzling ruby color serves as a prelude to a formidable floral bouquet, replete with roses and fresh violet. The wine is self-assured with an elegant tension, showcasing notes of blackberries, allspice and mocha.

92

Benziger 2023 Running Wild Chardonnay, Paicines, San Benito County ($26)

Despite its name, this wine walks a steady line between the brawn suggested by the cow on its label and the delicacy implied by the butterflies. Swirling with buttery toffee, baking spice, and vanilla, Bosc pear makes a leap from the nose to a palate whose richness is tempered by lemony acidity and punctuated by a finishing touch of oak and cashew.

95

Bien Nacido Estate 2022 Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($65)

Rich and complex, with ripe apples, pears, and pineapple. Buttery, with freshly baked bread and a well-rounded mouthfeel. One of the most noteworthy names in our industry.

97

Bien Nacido Estate 2022 Pinot Noir, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($90)

You won’t find many sites in California as respected as Bien Nacido Vineyard. This vintage is an Earth Mother, gracious and giving. Notes of ripe cherry, black tea, and iron-kissed soil. Sarsaparilla and allspice gently season cranberry. Incredibly elegant, with a round, down pillow lightness.

93

Blagden 2018 Pinot Noir, Sangiacomo Roberts Road Vineyard, Sonoma Coast ($60)

Deep and inviting; this seven-year-old Pinot Noir displays a character of warmth and charm. Chocolate-covered figs are surrounded by earthy undertones. Ripe cherry, black strap molasses, and sarsaparilla are comforting and elegant.

DO NOT ADD TO YEARBOOK

93

Bonterra 2024 Estate Collection Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino County, California ($22)

A seductive and savory Sauvignon Blanc, this white leads with subtle spices and an elegance befitting both the picnic table and the chef’s table. Endlessly easy drinking, the tropical notes of guava and kiwi gracefully tap dance between supple and lithe.

91

Bonterra 2024 Rosé, California ($13)

Using only certified organic grapes, this rosé features an array of aromas, including candied watermelon, lime zest and green apple flesh. The palate is bright and flavorful with blooming jasmine, a persistent verve, a flirtation with bramble fruit and a denouement replete with strawberries and cream.