GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

92

Susie Bynum 2023 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley ($25)

Admirably complex in relation to its asking price, this starts with scents of light oak spice and toast, followed by ripe fruit flavors recalling baked apples and poached peaches. Nearly full-bodied, it is freshened by ripe acidity with a touch of bitterness that balances the fruit’s sweetness.

92

Susie Bynum 2023 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley ($30)

Light in color and body, this surprisingly impactful Pinot is bolstered by touches of spice and toast that amp up both the aromas and flavors. The fruit shows tones of both red and black cherries, with additional bolstering from finely grained tannins in the finish that lend a well-measured grip.

93

Ten to Life 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County ($35)

Meaty notes and texture are impressive: juicy and deep. Concentrated flavors of boysenberry liqueur and grape jam are seasoned by sweet basil and tilled soil minerality.

90

Terra Pura 2024 Reserva Pinot Noir, Itata Valley, Chile ($14)

Black-peppered cherries, tilled soil, and espresso show notable depth for a Pinot Noir at this price. Expressive from star to finish.

93

Tesco Finest 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley ($29)

You won’t find many Cabs from Oakville at this price, and this one has a distinguished flair for an amazing value. Tobacco and coffee defines the wine’s savory side, while blackberry and cassis are juicy components of its finely structured frame.

93

Tesco Finest 2024 Chardonnay, Carneros ($29)

Barrel notes of toffee-vanilla align with sunshine-filled citrus and melon. Elegant, with a dramatic finish of apple tart and lemon verbena.

96

Thistledown 2023 “Sands of Time” Old Vine Grenache, Blewitt Springs, McLaren Vale, South Australia ($78)

Wild fermented, with 30% whole cluster in concrete pyramids before aging in oak and concrete. Elegant and perfumed, with roses and hibiscus framed in iron-mineral earth tones. Notes of Big cherries, tomato leaf, allspice, and salted cured meats. Dried herbs hang on for a long, elegant finish.

95

Thistledown 2023 She’s Electric Old Vine Grenache, McLaren Vale, South Australia ($47)

Buoyant, with an almost weightless mouthfeel, the luxurious liquid feels like a soft hand on a broad shoulder. Cranberries, cherries, and sweet tobacco light up, electric and focused.