GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

Eponymous 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($60)

Elegance is on display as the liquid flows gently across the palate, offering freshness and clarity of juicy blackberry. Black tea enters mid-point, adding length with plum skins and a pinch of black pepper.

89

Goose Ridge Vineyards 2023 StoneCap Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, WA ($12)

Juicy and vibrant with dusty, yet supple tannins and a mineral base. Herbaceous notes enter mid-palate, seasoning red cherry and roasted coffee.

92

Ironstone Vineyards 2023 Reserve Kramer Ranch Cabernet Sauvignon, Sierra Foothills AVA ($30)

Cassis, plum, and blackberry are far forward notes, adhering to drying tannins: grippy and generous. Texture of graphite and espresso beans keeps a bold impression. A herbaceous finish is sweetened by black fruit and dark chocolate.

90

Melini 2021 Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG, Tuscany ($16)

Coffee, tilled soil, sage, and cherry-mocha stir the senses. Bold, with tension and fine acidity.

89

Melini 2024 Borghi d’Elsa Chianti DOCG, Tuscany ($13)

Named for the valley that connects Florence to Siena, this wine is aged in stainless steel and concrete, with further maturing in bottle before release. Earth-laden dark cherries, tobacco, and dried violets reflect a thought-provoking value-driven Chianti.

93

Opolo 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ($42)

Dynamic and shiny, with elegant structure. Sweet tobacco, plum, rhubarb, and mint align with chalky tannins. Fresh and approachable.

94

Opolo 2023 Willow Cuvée Reserve, Willow Creek District, Paso Robles ($50)

A bountiful Bordeaux-style blend from blocks of 24-year-old Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon vines. Warming spices, sandalwood, and a generous flow of boysenberry and maple are superb flavors that wash across the palate on a velvet path.

90

Opolo 2024 Summit Creek Zinfandel, Paso Robles ($19)

Sage-soaked ripe cherries and black raspberries are juicy and concentrated. Spiced oak and chocolate add texture and energy.