Wine Reviews

93

Performance 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($45)

Dramatic and bold, with dense layers of espresso, black plum, cassis, and pipe tobacco. Tannins are suede-lined; drying and yet balanced with an elegant restraint.

90

Projection 2024 Chardonnay, North Coast ($14)

Magnetic, lush notes of Golden apple and pie crust, sparked by salty mineral tones. Summer crisp pear is a highlight, with brisk acidity.

93

Psagot 2024 Sinai “M” Series, Jerusalem Mountain, Israel ($29)

This robust red is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Shiraz, and 18% Malbec. Spiced sandalwood is tempered with bright cherry, mocha, and plum. Tannins are round but sturdy enough to prove its prowess of concentrated mountain fruit.

92

Psagot 2024 Sinai White Blend, Israel ($25)

A blend of 70% Gewurztraminer, with Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Juicy and creamy with notes of lychee, fresh linen, jasmine rice, and lime blossom. Cleanses the palate with an herbal glisten.

94

Rhys 2023 Chardonnay, Anderson Valley ($49)

Mineral-driven, with lemon sorbet, green apple, and chervil are all assisted by stark acidity. A veil of salty pears and waterlilies are angelically delicate on the steely finish.

98

Rudius 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain, Napa Valley ($128)

Velvet-lined, charismatic red with licorice, dried violets, and umami. Bold with a regal presence, supple tannins unfolding gracefully. Sumptuous black fruit enters mid-point drenched in sweet soil.

90

Scheid Family 2023 District 7 Cabernet Sauvignon. Monterey, CA ($16)

Built on a foundation of dark cherry fruit, this is a very solid Cabernet on its own terms. It displays enough textural softness and sweetness of fruit to be enjoyed as a sipping wine, but also enough depth of flavor and grip to work well at the table with robust dishes.

90

Scheid Family 2023 VDR Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($27)

In keeping with its name, this Cabernet is quite dark in appearance but not overly pushy in terms of flavor or structure. Black cherry and cassis fruit notes are a bit sweet but don’t come off as sugary, and the wine’s finish is firmed up by tannins that offer beneficial grip without turning astringent.