GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

Moret-Brealynn 2023 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($50)

Delicately spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar, wrapped around salted plum. Burnished rose petals come across as savory, hinting at an antique, exotic woodsy note on the finish.

93

Moret-Brealynn 2024 Rosé of Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County ($30)

Aromas of peony and pomegranate are striking. The mouthfeel is gentle and ripe with strawberry gelée. A hint of sweet basil glistens while floral tones linger.

92

Nielson 2023 Pinot Noir, Monterey and Santa Barbara Counties ($19)

This brand under the umbrella of Jackson Family Wines has become a premier source for quality Pinot and Chardonnay at modest prices. The 2023 vintage of Pinot is quite expressive, with dark cherry fruit notes in both the aromas and flavors, with undertones reminiscent of strawberries and baking spices. Medium-bodied, this offers substance and structure but remains openly fruity and immediately enjoyable.

89

Pacific Outpost NV Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($8)

As our least expensive wine on the list, this under $10 selection caught our attention for its low 12.5% abv as well as its layers of flavor. Boysenberry spiced with nutmeg and basil is juicy and offers up an oaky frame.

90

Pacific Outpost NV Pinot Grigio, California ($8)

Grapefruit slices pair with Golden Delicious apple and star fruit. Crisp, refreshing, with a hint of minerality.

92

Paula Kornell Brut, California ($22)

This sunny Champagne-method blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Noir is effervescent in more than just than literal sense of the word. Scents of mashed apple, white cherry, yellow peach, and grilled lemon plus a smidgen of blanched almond influence the suave mouthfeel, lifted by a note of orange peel.

93

Peregrine 2023 Riesling, Central Otago, New Zealand ($29)

Aromas of petrol and basil mirror on the palate. Dried mango and cashew butter are intimate notes, drawn out and broad. This is an earthy style of Riesling with honeyed citrus and flint playing a role on the crisp finish.

94

Peregrine 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Central Otago, New Zealand ($31)

Iconic aromas of gooseberry, along with thyme and unripened banana. Tart, with shiny flavors of green tea, yellow apple, and a flinty middle. Extroverted acidity cheers on the flavors through to the stunning finish.