GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

92

Franciscan 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($15)

Dusty chocolate fudge, marzipan, and caramel merge and surge with blackberry ganache. Layered flavors saturate the palate, with round tannins.

90

Franciscan 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, California (15)

Perky acidity activates crisp apples, white grapefruit, and a bloom of white flower petals. Clean and refreshing.

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.