Wine Reviews

95

Viña Cobos 2022 Bramare Malbec, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina ($60)

Dry and austere, concentrated notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and wild berries express a serious malbec. This wine possesses determination, demonstrating longevity and complexity. It shows in its deep, inky purple hue as much as it does in its full-bodied structure. Dried lavender drenched in plum liqueur and cherrywood drives the palate to new heights.

94

Viña Cobos 2022 Cocodrilo Corte Red Blend, Mendoza, Argentina ($35)

A lush and magnetic blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Cabernet Franc, 5% Malbec, and 1% Syrah. Bing cherry, black pepper, and cigar leaf are robust notes, creating a wine profile that’s more athletic than muscular. Chocolate-covered violets are succulent on the lengthy finish.

93

Viña Cobos 2023 FELINO Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina ($25)

Sourced from vineyards in the Valle de Uco and Luján de Cuyo appellations, this wine is juicy, ripe, and ready. Black cherry, violets, and rhubarb exhibit a seamless flow across the palate. The fruit is fresh and vibrant, with brightening acidity.

92

Viña Cobos 2024 Felino Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina ($22)

Aromas: Pineapple, gardenia, ocean breezes
From selected vineyards in the Luján de Cuyo and Valle de Uco appellations, comes this refreshingly lithe and wispy white with chiseled mineral tones. Salty air surrounds notes of tropical flowers and papaya. Mango and lime chiffon iced with saffron and white pepper awaken the senses. Acidity streaks across the palate and leaves a zing on the finish.

93

Wairau River 2023 Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand ($23)

Arousing, earthy aromas lead to a glassy mouthfeel. Notes of root beer, sweet tobacco, and iconic forest floor are approachable and luscious within a savory frame. New leather is dotted with cloves, basil, and rosemary. It finishes with sandalwood and the sensuousness of damp soil that Pinot Noir is wont to express.

93

Wente 2024 Riva Ranch Pinot Noir Rosé, Arroyo Seco, Monterey County ($22)

Aromas: Apricot, tangerine, and vanilla
A spring garden of wildflowers seduces the palate. Fresh, ripe melon, orange peel, and plumeria are further enhanced by bright acidity. A rosé to remember!

90

Wente Family Vineyard 2022 Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast ($20)

Tart cranberry, red tea, and clove angle to include an inner brightness. An herb garden seasons the vivacious red fruit that saturates the palate with a zing on the finish.

93

Wente Vineyards 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Wetmore Vineyard, Livermore Valley ($35)

A fine representation of Livermore Valley terroir and one of the flagship wines for the 140-year-old Wente Family Vineyards. Boysenberry and violets attach to drying tannins, supple and structured. Sweet earth rises to the fore, but the deep, dark fruit is ever-present. An approachable Cab that is superbly food friendly.