Wine Reviews

92

California Press 2022 Pinot Noir, Monterey County ($14)

A Pinot Noir with muscle, its concentrated notes of black cherry, pink peppercorns, plum, and espresso dynamic and impressive.

93

Carmen 2023 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc, Maipo Valley, Chile ($18)

Grown on rocky soils as high as 3,000 feet in elevation, this blend of 50/50 Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc demonstrate the abilities of Cab Franc as a superb partner to Cab Sauvignon from this region. Melted dark chocolate, violets, and chewy plum skin tannins create a dynamic first impression. Red and black fruit are bright and weave together with a mid-palate intensity of tobacco and umami. Aged 14 months in oak barrels, it shows a Chinon-like quality in its floral elegance and freshness.
Viña Carmen

95

Carmen 2025 Maria’s Legacy Chardonnay, Limari, Chile ($25)

Thanks to cool coastal influences and calcareous soils, the Limari Valley – one of the northernmost winegrowing regions in Chile – offers this most elegant and international style white. Its vanilla perfumed nose leads to a mineral-toned profile, with crème fraiche, lemon meringue, and toasted coconut. Fresh linen, salty pears, and peach notes are subtle but elegant. Whole cluster pressed, it imparts a complex mouthfeel and introduces floral notes, while also contributing to the wine’s enhanced acidity. First, a short ferment in smaller barrels and then aged 10-12 months in French oak. Outstanding – this single vineyard Chardonnay can compete with a white Burgundy.
Viña Carmen

93

Château des Riganes 2024 White, AOP Bordeaux, France ($13)

This 100% Sauvignon Blanc is crisp and refreshing with a steely focus. Vanilla-powdered pears and jasmine are stand-out flavors.

94

Château La Nerthe 2025 Les Cassagnes, Côte-du-Rhône Rosé, Rhône Valley, France ($22)

Dusted rose petals, watermelon, hibiscus, and shattered white cherries are distinctively alluring. Bright and shiny, its mineral tones a banner waving in the salty breeze.

94

Château La Nerthe 2025 Prieuré de Montézargues, Appellation Tavel Côntrolée, Rhône Valley, France ($26)

This rosé offers a perfume of rose petals steeped in Pekoe tea. Melting vanilla bean crosses the palate, with strawberries and an ever-so-light sensation of whipped cream. Beautifully balanced acidity augmenting a dashing, dramatic exit.

90

Chloe 2025 Alcohol-Removed Pinot Grigio, CA ($15)

Tart green apple and lime chiffon connect with racy acidity for a bright, shiny sipper.

93

Chronic Cellars 2021 “Sofa King Bueno” Red Blend, Paso Robles ($22)

Mouth-puckering notes of red cherry, sweet tobacco, and red tea come together for a vibrant blend of 50% Syrah, 30% Petite Sirah, 11% Grenache, 5% Tempranillo, and 4% Mourvèdre. Glistening white pepper adds zing to the finish.