Wine Reviews

92

Alexander Valley Vineyards 2023 Chardonnay, Alexander Valley ($23)

The balance between richer and more mouthwatering notes in this estate-grown Chardonnay is excellent. Grilled pineapples and baked pears are cut with acidity, and the mineral core is a solid counterpoint to the subtle buttery, vanilla-flecked finish.

92

Antigal 2022 Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina ($15)

Beefy and intense, with Mediterranean scrub, plum skin, violets, slate, and blackberry-espresso. Aged 10 months in French and American oak. Chalky tannins line the palate, with a fine, balanced acidity.

91

Apothic 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($14)

Full-bodied, with jammy blackberry, espresso, and sandalwood. Enticing, with white-peppered plum and a silky mouthfeel.

91

Apothic 2022 Merlot, California ($14)

Dark chocolate-cherry and a pinch of white pepper leads to a ripe mid-palate of purple plum. Finishes with toasted oak and cinnamon.

90

Apothic 2022 Pinot Noir, California ($14)

Wild strawberry, root beer, caramel, and toasty chocolate meld within an earthy frame.

90

Apothic 2022 Red Winemaker’s Blend, California ($12)

Chewy tannins, with ripe blackberry, mocha, and cedar. Sumptuous, with a sultry suede mouthfeel and a ripe, blue-fruited finish.

95

Araciel NV Malbec, Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina ($50)

Concentrated, jammy black fruit sets a luscious tone. Seamless texture, with mounting layers of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and sweet tobacco. Hints of oregano and thyme add character to the freshness of a saline-kissed cedar finish.

89

Árbol de Vida 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendoza, Argentina ($15)

Black raspberries and ripe cherries repose beneath a dusting of cocoa powder, all of it framed by nicely structured tannins that will pair beautifully with grilled meats yet are subtle enough to reward sipping on its own.