Wine Reviews

93

Growers by Isabel Estate 2025 Common Vine Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ ($22)

This splendid example of the Marlborough style, sourced from a single vineyard in the Waihopai Valley, shines with aromas and flavors of grapefruit, lime, and pepino melon accented by arugula and sea salt. Slightly spicy yet seamlessly integrated acidity highlights its crystalline character.

93

Guinigi 2025 Pinot Grigio, D.O.C. Delle Venezie, Italy ($14)

Salty and crisp, with acidity that thrills and trills. Summer pear steeped in basil and lemon sorbet are in sharp focus.

94

Harvey & Harriet 2024 White Blend, San Luis Obispo County ($22)

A luscious blend of 42% Chenin Blanc, 40% Chardonnay, with some Albariño and Viognier, aged eight months in 25% new French oak. Honeycomb and pear tart create a sensational flavor duo and mouthfeel, with stunning acidity. Undertones of graham cracker crust engage the palate, along with seductive tropical fruit and a wisp of mint and laurel.

96

Hawk & Horse 2023 Cabernet Franc, Red Hills AVA, Lake County ($65)

Cab Franc grown on rocky soils at an elevation of 2,200 feet has quite the impact. Focused, with melting dark chocolate cherries, roasted coffee, blackberries, layered with candied violets. The palate is long, with exquisitely balanced tannins and a fine mineral tonality on the clean finish.

98

Hawk & Horse 2023 Petit Verdot, Red Hills AVA, Lake County ($65)

From the estate vineyard, CCOF Organic and Demeter Biodynamic Certified, is this plush, suede-textured red that wears its place like a mineral halo. Ripe blackberry and red cherry are sun-warmed, braided with graphite and burnt amber. Polished and disciplined, with a crystalline finish.

94

Hawk & Horse 2023 Petite Sirah, Red Hills AVA, Lake County ($65)

Teeth-grabbing tannins help define this satin-lined, estate grown red. Notes of brambly wild blackberries follow, along with dried violets. Espresso, along with grapey flavors are delightful, and well partnered. A serious, muscle-bound Petite Sirah sporting mineral finesse.

91

Hawkstone 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa County ($25)

Muscular, with a juicy approachability. Black cherry, tobacco, and soy sauce are sympatico flavors that build on the dynamic, cedar-lined finish.

94

Hilary Goldschmidt 2023 Charming Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Oakville, Napa Valley ($60)

Tannins are firm with a certain tension that showcases graphite, fennel, plum skin, and espresso. An elegant powerhouse that opens to reveal a lush, generous flow of blackberry on the finish.