Wine Reviews

92

Vanderpump Wines 2023 Côtes de Provence Rosé, AOP Provence, France ($20)

With an omnipresence of stony mineral tones, this pink sipper blends 50% Grenache, 25% Cinsault, and 25% Syrah. It offers a gossamer patina embodying elegance and delicacy. Mid-palate, strawberry emerges, with hints of lavender and peach. Airy and refined with a hint of salty pink grapefruit on the finish.

91

Vanderpump Wines 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($18)

Maori family-owned Steve Bird Wines are committed to “the earth and sustainability.” This single vineyard Sauv Blanc are grown on well-drained silt loam soils in the Waihopai Valley. Classic grassy aromas with basil and a hint of jasmine and lemon blossom. Pineapple is lifted by its bright acidity, adding a sweet tone to its green apple-grapefruit tartness. The finish is crisp and clean, with a note of fresh linen.

93

Vanderpump Wines NV Crémant de Limoux AOP, France ($26)

From three of Limoux’s terroirs, this blend of 70% Chardonnay, 20% Chenin, and 10% Mauzac from five-century-old Maison Antech hails from vines that are as old as 80 years. A perfume of vanilla custard and tangerine are accompanied by a bread dough aroma. Bubbles are vivacious, revealing lemon drop and white flowers.

92

Vanderpump Wines NV Crémant de Limoux Rosé AOP, France ($26)

A prom dress-pink rosé made from 60% Chardonnay, 20% Chenin, and 20% Pinot Noir, with 30 months on the lees. Red plum and rose petals arise on nose and palate. Raspberries and a steely minerality are highlights of this refreshing sparkler.

93

Wairau River 2023 Pinot Gris, Marlborough, New Zealand ($18)

Lively aromas of honeysuckle, peach, and pear keep the senses occupied. Honeyed peach nectar beckons on the palate, almost hedonistically if not for the wine’s beautifully positioned acidity. What a showpiece for this variety.

91

Wairau River 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($18)

Led by aromas of marine-influenced stone fruit, flavors of kiwi in chervil and dill are crisp and salty. Vibrant from start to finish.

94

Wellborn Winery 2022 Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($50)

Mouth-filling notes of buttered corn, melon, and saffron. Rich and luxurious, reined in by a sleek acidity. A base of salinity and lemon zest adds a pop of freshness on the palate. Aged sur lie for 16 months in French oak.

95

Wellborn Winery 2022 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($65)

A rush of cranberry suede is spiced with cinnamon and dried roses. Energetic, with a broad band of acidity and a finely defined line of iron and black pepper. Just a touch of unearthed strawberries to satisfy a savory finish.