GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

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.

92

ILARIA 2022 Malbec, Napa Valley ($50)

With 16% Cabernet Sauvignon blended in, this massive Malbec, aged 22 months in 50% French oak, hails from Coombsville (84%) and Napa Valley (16%). Dusky and spiced, with sage intertwined in plum skins and salted figs in an umami-style soy sauce. Muscular, with dusty tannins that are taut but not overpowering. Finishes with underbrush and ultra ripe mulberry.

92

J. Lohr 2022 Tower Road Petite Sirah, Paso Robles ($35)

Lavender surrounds the palate, even toned and concentrated. Ripe plum engages with dark chocolate at mid-point, with silky, rich tannins carrying the flavors through to the spiced sandalwood finish.

91

J. Lohr 2024 Wildflower Valdiguié, Arroyo Seco, Monterey County ($13)

Fresh, fruity, and ripe with cherry skins, summer plum, and lilac. A fine line of acidity follows through to the zippy finish.

96

Jordan 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County ($60)

Thanks to a lower alcohol level than most Napa Cabs, the silky tannins and bright acidity are fluid and shine with an inherent approachability. Vivid notes of boysenberry, vanilla cedar, and, and sweet soil are amplified with a surge of saline minerality. St. Julien style with that California glow.

91

Just Enough Wines 2023 Brut Bubbles, Central Coast, CA ($7)

This canned blend of 99% Chardonnay with trace amounts of Viognier, Gewürztraminer, and Sauvignon Blanc achieves an impressive balance between lush aromas and refreshing flavors: Honeydew melon, lemon cookie, and ripe golden apple on the one hand, Sorrento lemon with hints of lemongrass, pineapple, and vanilla on the other. Tangy acidity sets the tone for a nice, dry finish.