Wine Reviews

91

Wente Vineyards 2022 Merlot, Central Coast ($20)

Ripe and toasty, with plum skin cedar and walnut. Blackberries at the height of their season add flavor, with a powdery texture. Nice weight on the palate and a long finish.

90

Wente Vineyards 2022 Mount Diablo Highlands Red Blend, Central Coast ($20)

Rich and fleshy, with ripe black cherry, plum, and vanilla bean. Mid-palate notes of coffee and a spark of white pepper incite a juicy freshness.

91

Wente Vineyards 2023 Riverbank Riesling, Central Coast ($28)

Stark mineral tones are compact and taut, with lemon wedge acidity. Bright notes of just-ripened pineapple and a hint of gardenia leave the palate refreshed.

92

Zoltar Speaks, 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($40)

Juicy, dark cherry with spiced nutmeg and sweet tobacco are prominent notes. Bittersweet dark chocolate melts across the palate as the tannins remain inviting and round.

94

Alceño 12 Monastrell, Jumilla, Spain ($17)

From vines that average 68 years in age, and with the addition of 15% Syrah, comes an exquisite example of this variety (also known as Mourvedre) from the Mediterranean coast of southeastern Spain. Dried lavender, cured meats, and bittersweet dark chocolate are attached to structured tannins in a savory frame. A juicy patchwork of plum and black cherry meld with oregano and bergamot. The finish results in a chalky mouthfeel.

94

Alceño 2020 Seleccion, Jumilla, Spain ($30)

An exuberant blend of Monastrell, Syrah, Tempranillo, and Garnacha grown in high altitude vineyards. Black-peppered sandalwood gives way to juicy, ripe, concentrated cherries. Black tea tannins control the palate with a savory array of Hoisin sauce, black olive, and salted charcuterie. Deep and arresting.

92

Alceño 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Jumilla, Spain ($12)

Bright, shiny, and slick, with lemon verbena, elderflower, and sweet basil. Acidity is dynamic, and a touch of salinity keeps the palate freshened.

92

Alexander Valley Vineyards 2020 Syrah, Alexander Valley ($26)

Silky and subtly lifted from the addition of 3% Viognier, this elegant Syrah is anchored by a touch bacon alongside higher-toned hints of cracked peppercorn and dried lavender. It’s all built around a core of mouthwatering blackberries and purple plums.