GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

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.

95

Thistledown 2023 Walking with Kings Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Mclaren Vale, South Australia ($50)

Dusty vanilla. Peanut brittle, honeyed mango, banana, and crushed stone are delightfully layered flavors. This white is structured and well balanced, with enough weight to demonstrate its round and satisfying texture.