GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

95

Elizabeth Spencer 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($55)

Black currant, mint, and coffee-washed oak characterizes the immediate, pleasurable notes from this big-boned, luxurious red. A foundation of graphite supports supple tannins, with a chalky base. Mediterranean scrub seasons earth tones and the finish of dried violets leaves a trace of sweetness on the palate.

97

Far Niente 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($130)

Grapes sourced from Rutherford, Calistoga, St. Helena, and the winery’s home in Oakville, this 17-month French oak-aged red is as elegant as it is emotive. Blackberry and clove-spiced cedar lines the mouth, erupting with graphite and espresso. Finely grained tannins adhere to dusty plum and lavender. Impeccably balanced and complex.

97

Far Niente 2023 Chardonnay, Napa Valley ($76)

The combination of maritime climate from Carneros and the volcanic, ash soils of Coombsville lends a hand in creating one of the most deluxe Chardonnays our team has had the pleasure to taste. Augmented by sweet vanilla cream, elderflower, and white cherries, the mouthfeel is exquisitely graceful. Notes of Key lime, herb-spiced lemon, and luscious ripe pineapple are opulent to the end. Aged sur lie in French oak barrels.

88

Faustino 2020 Rivero Ulecia Reserva, DO Utiel-Requena, Spain ($8)

Varieties Bobal and Tempranillo make up this ripe red, empowered with toasty oak and dried fruits. A bright acid structure and sinewy texture surround notes of blueberry and tobacco.

90

Faustino 2021 Rivero Ulecia Crianza, Rioja DOCa, Spain ($11)

This feisty blend of Tempranillo and Garnacha expresses graphite and roasted coffee with grainy, teeth-grabbing tannins surrounding its bold frame. Earthy, with tension, it’s a wine with staying power.

89

Faustino 2021 Rivero Ulecia, DO Navarra, Spain ($11)

Meaty and robust with a hint of smoky oak. Blackberry and charcoal coincide, with depth and finesse. A blend of Tempranillo and Merlot.

89

Firefly Ridge 2023 Chardonnay, California ($8)

Toasted scones, beeswax, and vanilla are expressive notes. Lemon bar leaves a creamy wash on the finish.

90

Firefly Ridge 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, California ($8)

Key lime pie with a side of meringue wakes up the palate with a delightful taste profile. Elderflower and white linen add layers to a wine under $10 – impressive. And on the finish a surge of salted pears sends forward a juicy flow.