GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

97

Chappellet 2022 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena, Napa Valley ($95)

Nine different Cabernet clones joined forces for the 2022 Signature, a wine designated in what the winery offers only in extraordinary vintages. The final blend of 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, includes Petit Verdot, Malbec, and Merlot in small quantities. Luscious, as expected, a bath of puréed black cherries and milk chocolate match with teeth-coating plum skin tannins. Spiced red tea, Italian herbs, and a trace of cinnamon-cedar are left behind on the long, silky finish.

95

Chappellet 2024 Signature Chenin Blanc, Napa Valley ($75)

Aromas: Fresh linen, chamomile, lemon tart
Succulent notes of tangerine peel, lime meringue, jasmine rice are plump and creamy. A striking acidity levels out the richness, as do the mineral notes that taste like rainwater. The finish of sweet, just-squeezed lime and a lathering of vanilla make a splash on the finish.

93

Chateau de Berne 2024 Inspiration Rose, Côtes de Provence, France ($22)

Aromas: Rose petals, melon, parchment
A cascade of tangerine, watermelon, and fresh strawberries wash over the palate. A hint of thyme and basil add seasoning to its dry, mineral profile.

99

Chateau St. Jean 2022 Cinq Cépages, Sonoma County ($130)

The five Bordeaux blending grapes give this wine its name, a true icon in California winemaking. From its inky black-carmine hue to its dusty, teeth-gripping nature, it’s a muscle-bound athlete. The dynamic foundation of graphite and new leather, wrapped in plum skin, espresso and violets gives a view into its deep soul.

98

CIRQ 2022 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($175)

Vintner Michael Browne’s circus background was the inspiration for the name CIRQ, and an adult ticket is required to gain access to this rapturous performer. The liquid goes deep, with notes of Devil’s Food cake, cassis, and black tea. Memorable, with that distinct forest floor-terroir scent and taste. The finish is ravishing, lengthy and polished, laced with violets and blueberry.

91

Cline Family Cellars 2023 Chardonnay, Mendocino & Sonoma Counties ($15)

Aromas: Lemon sorbet, salted pears, vanilla
A whisper of powdered lemon-vanilla marshmallow is followed by salty stone sidled up against brightly lit acidity. A seasoning of rosemary and dill adds extra complexity.

93

Cline Family Cellars 2023 Fog Swept Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($30)

Cinnamon cranberry sits on a pillow-light mouthfeel, with fresh raspberries, parchment, and rose petals. Framed by white pepper and brilliant acidity, rich sunshine pushes through its earth-laden core.

92

Cline Family Cellars 2024 Dry Rosé of Mourvèdre, Contra Costa County ($15)

Aromas: Orange peel, wet stone
Rose petals and strawberries glisten, with minerality as its foundation. Juicy and tart, with peony and roses peeking out on the finish.