Wine Reviews

98

Brooks Note 2023 Pinot Noir, Sweet Family Vineyard, Petaluma Gap, Sonoma County ($60)

Spiced cranberry in aspic perfumes the glass. Peony, rose petals, jasmine, and ripe summer cherries grace the palate. Sensational floral tones persist, sweetened by vanilla and candied cinnamon. This is a “wow” wine, from its aromatics to its scintillating mouthfeel armed with a brightness that keeps shining.

91

Buscado 2023 Tempranillo, Vino de la Tierra de Castillo IGP, Spain ($17)

Chewy, suede tannins address the palate with ease. This Temp has tempo – gliding across the palate with poise. Its body sways with well-choreographed flavors of leather and spice, its balanced acidity taking that final bow.

92

Cabernario No. 8, 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley, Chile ($20)

Blackberry is enveloped in espresso, tobacco leaf, and graphite, depicting a bold nature. Tannins are round and silky, modifying its concentrated flavor profile, creating an approachable, delicious red.

94

Cade 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley ($44)

Aromas: Peach blossom, guava, lemon ice
White flowers and summer peach are amplified by its striking acidity. Orange creamsicle is luscious and passionfruit is creamy, lingering on the finish. Concrete egg and barrel fermented with the additional blending of Viognier and Sauvignon Musqué. Stunning.

94

Caliza Winery 2021 Azimuth, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles ($75)

Salted, cured meats meld with juicy blackberry while sleek licorice lines the palate. Weighty and fleshy, with cocoa-plum dusty tannins and underlying graphite. Dynamic and charismatic, with balanced acidity and an impressive structure. A blend of 53% Mourvèdre, 35% Grenache, and 12% Syrah.

92

Carmen Gran Reserva 2023 Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc, D.O. Colchagua, Chile ($18)

Cassis and black raspberry are seasoned with sage and lavender. Vivid notes of tobacco, espresso, and charred cedar surround luscious notes of mulberry.

91

Carmen Gran Reserva 2023 Single Vineyard Carignan, Maule Valley, Chile ($18)

Juicy, with rhubarb and pomegranate, rose petals, and red tea. Plum skin tannins and a bounty of Mediterranean herbs are textural, adding body to the silky finish.

91

Carmen Gran Reserva 2023 Single Vineyard Chardonnay, D.O. Limari, Chile ($18)

Mineral tones spark flavors of peach and lemon blossom. Steely and clean, with green apple tartness. Aged on the lees for 10 months.