Wine Reviews

91

Maxville Winery 2022 “The High Valley” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa ($45)

Deeply extracted, bold, densely layered aromas of cassis, blackberry and toasty oak. Ample weight on the palate, nice concentration, full, round, and well structured. The black fruit aroma carries through to the palate, alongside well-integrated high quality oak notes. The finish is long with tannins that are ripe but add an element of grip.

93

Meandro do Vale Meão 2020, Douro DOC, Portugal ($27)

Aromas of jasmine and white cherries beckon, leading to flavors of blackberries and spiced earth, Italian herbs, and black olive framed on a mineral base. Tannins purr, silky and sensuous, edging into a chalky finish. A blend of 53% Touriga Nacional, 40% Touriga Franca, with some Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz, and Alicante Bouschet.

91

Moroki 2022 Pinot Noir, Nelson, New Zealand ($17)

Startling acidity carries an array of bright flavors. Notes of red plum, spiced cherry, hibiscus, and sweet earth are generous within an earthy core.

89

Moroki 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($17)

Just-ripened grapefruit alongside a garden of basil, chervil, and tarragon. Bright and crisp with a finish of salted green apple.

91

Mud House 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($13)

Those who love ultra-fresh Sauvignon Blanc when oysters come into prime season in late fall winter should look to Southern Hemisphere releases such as this. It displays the classic Marlborough profile at a very attractive price, with aromatic and flavor notes of lemon, pink grapefruit, and capsicum. A soft kiss of sweetness buffers its abundant acidity, keeping it zesty but not sour.

95

Myka Estates 2023 Pepperwood Vineyard Pinot Noir, Petaluma Gap, Sonoma Cty. ($65)

A brilliant wine, beautifully crafted from start to finish. Medium deep red color, wonderfully aromatic with lifted red fruit, ripe strawberry and raspberry notes along with a savory dried herb note. Ample weight on the palate, round, seamlessly smooth, with bright acidity to keep it fresh on the palate. The oak is present just enough to add complexity and nuance. Sublime, refined, elegant and immediately appealing from the first sip. Aged nine months in French oak.

90

Needle & Thread 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($14)

Well balanced oak, fruit, and supple tannins carry a sturdy structure. Spiced cedar keeps a toasty profile, with roasted coffee and black currants. A lingering finish is dotted with black pepper. Surely an overachiever at this price!

89

Needle & Thread 2021 Pinot Noir, California ($14)

Earthy, with grainy tannins. Savory notes of mushroom and roasted coffee align with ripe cherry. Finishes with a mélange of cocoa-cassis and cedar-cinnamon.