Wine Reviews

95

J. Lohr 2023 Carol’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, St. Helena, Napa Valley ($60)

A love letter to Jerry Lohr’s wife, this vintage shows opulence with a powerful presence. Adding to its character is some tension, deepening on mid-palate. Black tea, licorice, blackberries, and dried herbs add complexity and style.

92

J. Lohr 2024 Arroyo Vista Chardonnay, Arroyo Seco, Monterey ($25)

Spiced apples and pears are sparked by a stony mineral tone. Leesy and fresh, with a crisp finish of Key lime pie.

93

J. Wilkes 2022 Chardonnay, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($35)

Full-bodied, rich, and seductive. Fine acidity reins in cinnamon crème brûlée and pear tart. A luxurious finish of lemon verbena lingers.

94

J. Wilkes 2022 Pinot Blanc, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($35)

Vivid aromas and flavors of pear tart. On the palate, stony minerality meets up with vanilla crème fraiche and mango. Subtlety is key here, offering grace and complexity, with bracing acidity.

93

J. Wilkes 2022 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County ($40)

Notes of tilled soil evoke mineral gems. Abundant flavors of chocolate-cherry with a pinch of cinnamon and soy sauce are sparked by a frisky acidity.

93

Jezreel Valley Winery 2024 Alfa, Jezreel Valley, Israel ($25)

A beefy combination of 50% Syrah, 30% Argaman, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. Notes of charcuterie, tobacco, and rich red cherry are expressive and luscious. On mid-palate, iron shavings and plum contend with supple, dry tannins.

91

Just Enough 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast, CA ($8) – 250 ml Can

With the addition of 14% Malvasia Bianca, this 250 ml canned Sauvignon Blanc from the Paso Robles Highland District is equal to 1.7 glasses. Plump peaches and pink grapefruit surround the palate. Vivacious and clean with generous acidity for a refreshing finish.

90

Kirkland Signature 2021 Reserva Rioja DOC, Spain ($8)

A remarkable price for a wine with a family-owned legacy. Crafted by Bodegas Eguía, part of the Murúa family portfolio that also includes Bodegas Muriel in Elciego, Spain, it is made from 100% Tempranillo, and aged 30 months in French and American oak. Cherry-lined woodsy notes possess a whisper of white pepper and dark red fruit, capturing the essence of tradition and sun-soaked terroir. Leather and a touch of cocoa combine with refreshing acidity and warming spices.