Wine Reviews

94

Educated Guess 2023 Estate Grown Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley ($50)

A slick mouthfeel embraces notes of cinnamon toast, lemon oil, and crème brulée. Balanced, this opulent Chardonnay is wrapped in white flowers that undress to reveal a seductive orange cream finish.

93

Elizabeth Rose 2023 Chardonnay, Napa Valley ($25)

My very recent introduction to the excellent Pinot and this Chardonnay puts this producer very near the top of my current list of high-value overachievers. Made with organic grapes sourced from Yountville, this is medium-bodied. It shows outstanding purity of fruit and definition of flavors that include both orchard and citrus fruits. Only 50% of the juice was fermented in barrels, and the cooperage was used, which was a wise choice to enhance the bright, lifted palate impression.

93

Elizabeth Rose 2023 Pinot Noir, Napa Valley ($25)

Fine Napa Valley Pinot Noir made with organic grapes for $25 seems too good to be true—and it usually is, except in this case. This is admirably delicate in style, thanks to a cool microclimate in the Block House vineyard in Yountville. Classic notes of cherries and strawberries are enhanced with subtle spice and vanilla accents derived from aging for nine months in 35% new French oak. Remarkable elegance for the price.

96

Elizabeth Spencer 2019 Proprietor Selected Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley ($85)

Magnetic, this sultry red’s charms show through a velvet mouthful, curvaceous and gracious, with a body built to perform. Blackberry ganache, anise, new leather, dusty graphite, and clove-spiced cedar prove its layered expressiveness.

93

Elizabeth Spencer 2022 Special Cuvée Chardonnay, Mendocino ($23)

Made with organic grapes, this is a graceful white, with ethereal notes of white flowers laced with Meyer lemon and pineapple. Acidity is vibrant and allows the liquid to cascade across the mouth with a steely finish.

93

Elizabeth Spencer 2023 Special Cuvée Sauvignon Blanc, North Coast ($20)

Aromas of pineapple and kiwi are appealing. This Sauvignon Blanc hits the sweet spot with pink grapefruit and lime chiffon. Honeyed pears glisten on a slightly creamy mouthfeel. Elegant and poised.

94

Elizabeth Spencer Special Cuvée 2022 Grenache, Mendocino ($35)

Buoyant mouthfeel, light and airy, balanced out with savory undertones of umami. Rose petals surround pomegranate and persimmon. Expressive and lively, fresh, and elegant. A fantastic food partner.

94

Elizabeth Spencer Special Cuvée 2022 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast ($38)

Dusky and savory, with gem-like earth tones, sweet tobacco, and strawberry jam. Exhibiting old world acidity, with a hint of graphite and espresso – it depicts California with a French accent.