GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

96

Ram’s Gate 2021 Chardonnay, El Diablo Vineyard, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($74)

From the winery’s single vineyard series, clonal selection is 70% Montrachet Selection and 30% Robert Young. A charm bracelet of jeweled fruit washes across the palate, with lemon batter, mango, pineapple, and a thread of salty minerality from volcanic red soils. Marzipan and nutmeg ramp up on the energetic finish.

95

Ram’s Gate 2021 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($50)

All native ferments and some whole cluster create texture and style. Dried roses, white-peppered pomegranate, red cherry, and spiced red tea are just a few of the layers in this structured Pinot Noir. Notes of umami ring true, with an absolute air of elegance.

94

Ram’s Gate 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, Carneros, Sonoma County ($40)

White flowers melt across the palate with a confectionary wash. Crushed pineapple leads to a stony finish. Elegant, pure, and well defined.

94

Ram’s Gate 2022 Estate Pinot Blanc, Carneros, Sonoma County ($40)

White flowers melt across the palate with a confectionary wash. Crushed pineapple leads to a stony finish. Elegant, pure, and well defined.

92

Rebellious 2020 Red Blend, California ($24)

A pleasing, persistent finish follows a basket of red fruits and tobacco throughout. Dense, vibrant, and well-structured, this blend is balanced and sure-footed. Graceful tannins underpin a lithe mouthfeel with juicy notes of cranberry and ripe cherry.

91

Rebellious 2022 Pinot Noir, California ($24)

With an elegant and dense structure, this Pinot is the picture of generosity. There are plumes of plum, blackcurrant and sour cherry. Supple edges and a palate-cleansing lift conclude with rugged notes of oak and a touch of crushed rocks and black tea.

92

Rebellious 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, California ($20)

Hardly a wallflower, this wine bristles with tropical fruits, ruby grapefruit, and wild herbs. Shrouded throughout with an electric minerality, it exhibits ripe peach, limeade, and a soupçon of wasabi.

90

Relax “Zero” Alcohol-Removed Sauvignon Blanc, Germany ($12)

This is one of the most impressive non-alc wines we’ve tasted. Aromas of lemon blossom and chamomile waft from the glass. Refreshing and crisp, with clean grapefruit and peach notes enveloped in a floral array of honeyed daffodils and lemon verbena.