GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

91

Medina Gap 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ($15)

The taste of Paso Robles terroir is in every sip, deep and shadowed sweet soil, roasted coffee, and black plum. Tannins are sturdy and well structured, while the finish of desiccated violets leaves a long-lasting impression.

92

Meiomi 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, California ($18)

A luscious array of pear blossoms, vanilla meringue, Key lime and chamomile. Mid-palate notes of ripe pineapple help deliver the fine acid structure to the fore.

95

Merriam 2022 Merlot, Windacre Estate, Russian River Valley ($56)

The seduction begins with a sensuous bouquet, teeming with candied red fruit, plum, rose petals and mint leaves. Aged for 18 months in 30% new French Oak, the velvety sensations are enveloping and the supple tannins prickle more than they bite. This wine is charm incarnate.

92

Merriam 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley ($30)

Thai lime, jasmine, and meringue materialize on the nose with fleeting wisps of spun honey. This Sauvignon Blanc has a satiny softness and the palate surges with lemon verbena, white tea leaves and green apple alongside a nimble acidity.

97

Nickel & Nickel 2023 Branding Iron Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley ($135)

Built to last, tannins are svelte and architecturally sound. Graphite and black tea add grip and verve, ascending in depth and flavor with each sip.

97

Nickel & Nickel 2023 C.C. Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley ($135)

A creamy lava flow of spiced pomegranate, red tea, and vanilla-coated cherries. Distinctively fresh, with white pepper and hyacinth, its focused acidity brings it to a high energy finish.

99

Nickel & Nickel 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, John C. Sullenger Vineyard, Oakville, Napa Valley ($135)

Dried lavender and mulberry are fine contenders for attention. This fragrant and well-tempered red shows restraint amidst its broad, generous demeanor. Licorice, leather, soy sauce, and purple plum weave through a mineral core to a most elegant finish.

98

Nickel & Nickel 2023 De Carle Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley ($135)

Sinewy and tense, its dusty raspberry-skin tannins melding with a rich, mineral core. Engaged with dried lavender, jasmine and a hint of iron, the wine boasts a juicy nature, revealing black cherry washing over spiced cedar.