Wine Reviews

92

Chronic Cellars 2023 “Sir Real” Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ($17)

Chocolate-covered cherries and sweet tobacco are layered with concentrated charm. Coffee notes linger on the supple finish.

98

Clarice 2024 Pinot Noir, Garys’ Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County ($98)

This French-oak aged beauty hails from the region’s famed vineyard, crafted by Adam Lee. It’s a perfumed masterpiece with scents of rose petals kissed by milk chocolate. Cardamom-spiced cranberries and Rooibos tea are just some of the exotic mosaic pieces that perk up the palate. Complex and riveting.

92

Cooper & Oak 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills, Lake County ($19)

A mineral-driven red, with a firm grip and a bit of tension. Dynamic notes of cigar leaf, plum, and mocha are well-balanced with an innate acid structure.

93

Cooper & Thief x Larceny 2023 Red Blend, Napa Valley ($35)

Spending two months in Larceny Bourbon barrels, and coming in at 16 percent abv, offers a dense and spicy red blend, with caramel-espresso intrigue. Dried violets, walnuts, cloves, and crushed, ripe blackberries unfold with a velvety mouthfeel with the warmth of bourbon.

94

Crocus 2022 ‘L’Atelier’ Malbec de Cahors, France ($20)

Located in Southwest France, just 120 miles east of Bordeaux, this wine region showcases Malbec in a different light: Sinewy and lithe, with a slight, tight tension. Elevated flavors of lavender and a dark-fruited core of black cherry demonstrate restraint. Earthy and mineral-driven, with cured herbs and firm acidity, it offers a freshness that’s inimitable.

94

Cuvaison Estate 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Los Carneros, Napa Valley ($28)

Armed with the notable d’Yquem selection Clone 242 from Sancerre and the addition of 9% Sémillon, this six-month stainless-steel aged Sauv Blanc is an aromatic dream of grapefruit and citrus blossom. Salty and crisp on the front of the tongue, it offers creamier notes of lemon meringue on mid-palate. Stunning acidity lights up the glass, with thyme and sweet basil surrounding green tea flowers, honeydew, and fresh pineapple creating a vibrant finish.

90

Dellatorri 2024 Chianti DOCG, Tuscany, Italy ($11)

Bright acidity warrants attention, lifting desirable notes of tart cherry, balsamic, and black tea. Over-delivers at this price.

92

Des Barons Edmond & Benjamin de Rothschild 2023 Montagne Saint-Emilion Contrôlée, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France ($35)

A stunning red blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Dried violets and tart cherry are balanced with lean minerality and bright acidity. Subtle hints of graphite, fennel, and laurel on the finish. Aged 12 months in French oak.