Wine Reviews

96

Guarachi Family Wines 2022 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($60)

From Guarachi’s Sun Chase Vineyard, this Dijon clone Pinot Noir made us gasp. Lavender-infused plum melts across the mouth while cocoa and brushy notes linger. White pepper matches wits with acidity, revealing black cherry liqueur. Exquisite.

98

Guarachi Family Wines 2023 Pinot Noir, Sun Chase Vineyard, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($75)

The maritime climate of the Sonoma Coast, known for its cooling winds, along with the steep, 1,400-foot elevation of this coveted vineyard – the highest in the Petaluma Gap AVA where it is situated, created an ideal environment for crafting this stellar three-clone Pinot Noir. Black fruit, fennel, and sandalwood feels glossy as it settles on the palate. Black cherries and Worcestershire perform a duet, savory and deep. The balance of low and high notes, acidity, minerality, and inner strength, makes the finish of chocolate-covered rose petals more noteworthy.

91

Guinigi 2023 Pinot Grigio, D.O.C. Delle Venezie, Italy ($14)

Aromas: Honeysuckle, vanilla, blue flowers.
Matured on the lees, notes of lemon-dressed candle wax, peach, and honeysuckle converge for a juicy, expressive Pinot Grigio. Apple tart connects with wet stone and bright acidity for a refreshingly clean finish.

95

Hamel 2020 Stratum Red Wine, Sonoma Valley, Sonoma County ($60)

From the western slopes of the Mayacamas, volcanic soils of rhyolitic colluvium and fractured basalt play an integral role in shaping the character of this estate blend of 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 34% Merlot. Seamless, luscious, and broad, with suede tannins capturing ripe red cherry and cinnamon tea. A dusty cocoa-plum profile exudes pulchritude and charm.

96

Handpicked Wines 2021 Wombat Creek Single Vineyard Pinot Noir, Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia ($75)

A cacophony of cherries and sweet cinnamon, this light and airy red possesses a gem-like, mineral taste. The combination of its fruity, savory, and floral characteristics is memorable. It finishes with cigar leaf, rose petals, and a rush of raspberries.

94

Heir Apparent 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Napa Valley ($135)

Focused and indulgent, with sleek acidity aligning flavors of cranberry, red tea, and Italian herbs. Tense and reserved, with plenty of aging potential.

92

Herzog Lineage 2022 Pinot Noir, Clarksburg, CA ($20)

Mediterranean scrub and strawberries pulled from tilled soil are aligned with high-toned acidity and waves of tart cherry. Sweet tobacco and dried roses are layered to create a delicate dusting on the finish.

94

ILARIA 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($70)

Muscular, with some bold moves. This 22-month French oak-aged red (with 12% Malbec) possesses tension. Its statuesque build is held up by graphite, espresso, and chalky tannins. Black fruit reigns, reviving the palate with each sip.