GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

96

Lorenzi Estate 2020 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Hillside Vineyard, Temecula Valley ($110)

Aged 34 months in 100% new French oak, with additional bottle aging, this is a muscular red with supple tannins and a weighty mouthfeel. Its exuberance is on display from start to finish, showcasing black plum, saddle leather, pencil lead, and tobacco. Finishes with an espresso-laden suede mouthfeel, dotted with herbs and dark chocolate.

95

Lorenzi Estate 2020 Reserve Syrah, Dos Caballos Block, Temecula Valley ($95)

Dense and inky, with notes of charred beef, black olive, espresso, and burnt marshmallow. Second tier notes of rich, spiced plum and cherry skins which attach to the tongue with a healthy grip. A mighty red that exudes blackberries and sweet earth, with grainy tannins and a creamy base. Aged 30 months in 100% new French oak, with additional bottle aging.

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.