GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

Croma Vera 2022 Graciano, Happy Canyon of Santa Barbara ($55)

Croma Vera’s wines are sourced from SIP Certified and sustainable vineyards. With 14% Grenache, this is a graceful red, with subtle tones of rosemary-tinged blackberry. Black pepper, clove, and a touch of cinnamon add dimension to the flow of creamy cherry-vanilla. Ripe fruit is spicy and earthy, with a saline finish.

95

Croma Vera 2022 Grenache, San Luis Obispo Coast ($55)

With the addition of 15% Graciano, the wine is aged in neutral French puncheons for 18 months. The wine is slick, exuding notes of white-peppered black raspberry that lights up the palate. Earthy, with zesty notes of cinnamon and rhubarb. It finishes with a juicy wash of mocha and mulberry.

96

Cusumano 2020 NOÀ, Sicilia DOC, Italy ($55)

The biblical figure Noah is said to have been the first person to cultivate a vineyard, and this Super Sicilian blend of 40% Nero d’Avola, 30% Merlot, and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon is dedicated to him. Dusty, dry, and plummy tannins maintain grip and an assertive presence. Impressive tones of lavender, jasmine, orange peel, and dark black fruit engage with a remarkable acid structure. Expressive, with a luxe tone.

96

Cusumano 2020 NOÀ, Sicily DOC, Italy ($55)

The biblical figure Noah is said to have been the first person to cultivate a vineyard, and this Super Sicilian blend of 40% Nero d’Avola, 30% Merlot, and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon is dedicated to him. Dusty, dry, and plummy tannins maintain grip and an assertive presence. Impressive tones of lavender, jasmine, orange peel, and dark black fruit engage with a remarkable acid structure. Expressive, with a luxe tone.

95

Cusumano 2021 Salealto, Terre Siciliane IGT, Italy ($55)

Equal parts Insolia, Grillo, and Zibibbo (aka Muscat of Alexandria) compose this white wine from Tenuta Ficuzza, whose name translates to “the encounter of sea and mountain.” It exudes aromas of deliriously perfumed tangerine and apple, and on the palate, nutty notes meld with wildflower, crème brûlée, lemon cake batter, and shortbread. A salty sea breeze offers an ethereal finish.

95

Cusumano 2021 Salealto, Terre Siciliane IGT, Italy ($55)

Equal parts Insolia, Grillo, and Zibibbo (aka Muscat of Alexandria) compose this white wine from Tenuta Ficuzza, whose name translates to “the encounter of sea and mountain.” It exudes aromas of deliriously perfumed tangerine and apple, and on the palate, nutty notes meld with wildflower, crème brûlée, lemon cake batter, and shortbread. A salty sea breeze offers an ethereal finish.

95

Cusumano 2022 Jalé Chardonnay, Terre Siciliane IGT, Italy ($40)

Jalé is named for the chalky white soils in the vineyards on the winery’s Ficuzza estate, which are surrounded by woods on hills at 2,700 feet above sea level. Leesy, buttery notes intertwine with ample acidity to satisfy the palate. Marzipan and salted pear are balanced by a creamy base of vanilla.

91

Cusumano 2022 Nero D’Avola, Sicilia DOC, Italy ($17)

Earthy and plummy, with notes of quince and orange peel. Basil-kissed tomato leaf and a pinch of white pepper and tobacco leaf. The wine is spiced with chili pepper, with medium acidity and ample tannin structure.