Wine Reviews

92

Lubanzi 2023 Organic Red, Coastal Region, South Africa ($18)

This 100% Shiraz possesses a complex and savory character that makes it seem as much like a Rhône rendition as one from Australia. Medium-bodied with expressive fruit showing both red and black tones, it also displays very pleasant forest floor accents and an undertone recalling mushrooms.

92

Lubanzi 2024 Chenin Blanc, Swartland, South Africa ($18)

Generous with fine balancing acidity that enlivens the flavors, this is an excellent introduction to the high-value category of South African Chenin. Subtle floral scents along with a hint of wild honey are very appealing, followed by flavors reminiscent of ripe peaches and mildly sweet lemon curd. Well suited to stand-alone sipping or pairing with lightly spicy fish or poultry dishes.

91

LVE Signature Series 2022 Chardonnay, Central Coast ($15)

Lusty, rich notes of caramel pudding, chamomile, and lemon verbena splash across the palate. A keen acidity maintains freshness. Vanilla-cedar provides a weighty creaminess and distinguishes this wine with a luxe patina.

91

Maris Rare Orange, Vin de France ($19)

Made entirely from organically grown Muscat Blanc à Petit Grains grapes that were fermented with the skins and juice together, this is floral and juicy and full of flavorful fun. Its core note actually brings Mandarin oranges to mind, but dry through the mid-palate and finish. Strikingly interesting but also refreshingly unpretentious.

91

Maris Rouge Blend, Pays d’Oc, France ($15)

Made from 70% Merlot and 30% Syrah grown organically and vinified without added sulfur, this medium-bodied red punches above its weight. Impressively expressive in terms of aroma and flavor in relation to its moderate richness, it features both red and black fruit tones with finely balanced acidity and tannin. Pure but not simple, this offers very good value.

90

Mas La Chevalière 2023 Chardonnay, IGP Pays d’Oc, France ($15)

Very inviting style with a youthful appearance. Lifted pear and green apple notes, good intensity on the palate. Nicely balanced; quite elegant and refined with fine purity of fruit, along with ample acidity to keep the fresh and bright. A no-oak style, five months in stainless steel.

90

Mas La Chevalière 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, IGP Pays d’Oc, France ($15)

Very pleasant, with a slight greenish tinge, appealing citrus and dill aroma. Moderate intensity, along with lifted acidity on the palate, medium bodied, very appealing in a direct, bright, lively manner with a refreshingly dry finish. Aged four months in stainless steel.

94

Maxville Winery 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Chiles Valley, Napa ($80)

Very well extracted with an opaque core, carrying concentrated aromas of blackberry, cassis, olive tapenade, dark roast coffee, and dried herbs. Weighty and full, displays purity and precision with well balanced with extended length on the back palate, along with firm tannins. Very good aging potential.