Wine Reviews

93

Les Vins Julien 2023 Chardonnay Light, Alder Springs Vineyard, Mendocino County ($35)

An ethereal white wine with a whisp of linen, vanilla crème fraiche, and lemon bar. Exacting precision and a balanced palate of modernity for a California Chardonnay.

92

Les Vins Julien 2023 Le Blanc Light, California ($28)

Winemaker Julien Fayard’s field blend, with only 70 calories and coming in at 11% abv. Crisp pear, Fuji apple, and honeysuckle are clean and stark on the palate. Fresh, high-toned acidity adds top notes to the lemon-lime squeeze on the finish.

93

Les Vins Julien 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley ($35)

Mesmerizing perfume of basil, chervil, and lime zest. On the palate, the first sip swirls the palate in a wash of wet stone and grapefruit. Texturally, the wine owns up to a gossamer-toned esprit, slightly creamy, with candied pineapple and a spark on the finish from its racy acidity.

91

Lifevine 2023 Chardonnay, California ($18)

The bouquet is hardly shy with a panoply of pleasant aromas, including rich clove, wet stone, Bosc pear and a forest of white flowers. The palate is juicy and lithe, angular, and fresh with hints of apple flesh and lemon zest.

94

Lobo 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Atlas Peak, Napa Valley ($125)

When it comes to an austere entry of teeth-gripping, mineral-focused tannins, this big, bold, balanced red belongs in our pack. Wild at first, its power is gentled by a creamy core of fully ripened blackberry. Smooth and glossy on the finish, with dried heather, sweet soil, and mulberry.

95

Lone Eagle 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, The Summit, Sonoma County ($65)

Dusty and determined, with an inner structure that offers power and soul. Black raspberry and dark chocolate are wrapped in a bouquet of lavender and plum skin. Juicy and fresh; grainy tannins carry savory spice and sandalwood on a generously long wingspan.

96

Lorenzi Estate 2020 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Hillside Vineyard, Temecula Valley ($110)

Aged 34 months in 100% new French oak, with additional bottle aging, this is a muscular red with supple tannins and a weighty mouthfeel. Its exuberance is on display from start to finish, showcasing black plum, saddle leather, pencil lead, and tobacco. Finishes with an espresso-laden suede mouthfeel, dotted with herbs and dark chocolate.

95

Lorenzi Estate 2020 Reserve Syrah, Dos Caballos Block, Temecula Valley ($95)

Dense and inky, with notes of charred beef, black olive, espresso, and burnt marshmallow. Second tier notes of rich, spiced plum and cherry skins which attach to the tongue with a healthy grip. A mighty red that exudes blackberries and sweet earth, with grainy tannins and a creamy base. Aged 30 months in 100% new French oak, with additional bottle aging.