Wine Reviews

94

Franzese Wines NV Areni, Vayots Dzor, Armenia ($25)

From reformed mob boss Michael Franzese, this floral-toned beauty displays hibiscus, roses, and peony within a sublime frame of keen acidity. Tart red cherry and sweet tobacco add depth.

94

Franzese Wines NV Malbec, Vayots Dzor, Armenia ($25)

From the foothills of Mount Ararat, we find an aromatic red that offers a unique persona for this variety. Scents of cocoa, rose petals and cherry mirror flavors on first sip. With bracing acidity, tart cranberry follows, with vanilla-kissed cherrywood. Vivid and focused, with dusty tannins. Delicate and well balanced with a flourish of roses on the finish.

94

Fringe 2021 Spanish Cowboy Red Wine, Sierra Foothills ($32)

The fragrances of Provençal herbs, all-spice and a hint of new cigar are transporting. As if guided by a concierge, the flavors are sequenced seamlessly, with chocolate-covered cherries followed by fresh strawberries layered with espresso and tobacco. A blend of Zinfandel, Tempranillo and Mataro, it is sophisticated and supple without being blousy or bloated.

93

Gehricke 2022 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($29)

Graceful, with a trail of raspberry and wild cherry that leads to a savory side of bramble and sweet tobacco. A pinch of black pepper seasons pomegranate, while notes of chocolate soothe the palate. A finish of espresso and tilled soil weaves its way through bright acidity.

93

Grgich Hills 2022 Chardonnay, Napa Valley ($48)

Creamy, with a focused woodsy character. Pear tart, chamomile, and honeyed banana lend depth and texture. Balanced, luxurious mouthfeel, a spiced pumpkin finish, with a pinch of salinity.

91

Hand on Heart Non-Vintage, Non Alc. Cabernet Sauvignon ($15)

A tantalizing dark color precedes a savory and rich nose. Baking spices play alongside notes of black current and black cherry with a hint of olive. On the palate there are savory dried herbs with ripples of hibiscus and ripe strawberry.

91

Hand on Heart Non-Vintage, Non Alc. Chardonnay ($15)

A deep golden hue matches a toasted and buttery perfume. Layers of flavors reveal themselves with each swirl, including traces of clover honey and macadamia nuts. The palate is light with a hint of Asian pear and even a touch of lychee.

91

Hand on Heart Non-Vintage, Non Alc. Rose ($15)

The robust bouquet of eager red berries is transporting to a calm sunny morning on a cranberry bog. Lively and tart, it is a showcase of fresh lime, with a hint of marmalade and is reminiscent of a cosmopolitan cocktail. Carrie Bradshaw would approve.