GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

92

Rutherford Hill 2022 AJT Collection Sauvignon Blanc, Rutherford, Napa Valley ($34)

AJT is named for the man who started it all: founder Anthony J. Terlato. From the winery’s estate vineyard, this ethereal white is aged in 30% new French oak, 40% neutral oak, and 30% stainless steel. It whispers of rosemary, laurel, and green tea. Lime zest glitters, with a clean mineral tone and bright acidity.

93

Salvestrin 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley ($39)

Sourced from the Crystal Springs and Laurent Vineyards within Napa’s St. Helena appellation. Aged in both stainless steel and neutral oak, it hits the sweet spot between the grassy, herbal, and citrus-driven side of the variety. Its softer, broader profile is reminiscent of ripe pear and honeydew melon.

93

Sanford 2022 Chardonnay, Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County ($48)

Whole cluster pressed and fermented in French oak, it delivers indulgent notes of lemon bar, honeyed pear, lychee, and gardenia. The richness is reined in and the wine is impeccably balanced.

94

Sanford 2022 Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills, Santa Barbara County ($56)

From two iconic vineyards: La Rinconada and Sanford & Benedict, this 11-month French-oak aged red speaks to fresh earth, bright cherry, and a pinch of white pepper. A cascade of red flowers, Rooibos tea, and cinnamon hots add to its graceful charm.

91

Schug 2022 Chardonnay, Carneros “Estate Grown,” Sonoma Coast ($54)

Toasty brioche and lemon verbena are elegantly placed between a noticeable salinity and a fine acidity. Crème brulée and mango play a role on the spicy finish.

92

Schug 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma Coast ($30)

Notes of linen, grapefruit zest, and laurel create a tartness on the palate. Striking acidity and a lemon blossom sweetness adds to its appealing character.

90

Screen Door Cellars 2021 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley ($40)

Pale, youthful appearance, impressive range of aroma, stone fruit, pear, citrus, vanilla, and smoky oak. Beautiful integration on palate, ripe fruit, round, and creamy, with a round character. Ample acidity to provide lift and freshness with good length.

92

Screen Door Cellars 2022 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley ($50)

Medium deep, crimson color, impeccable aroma of cherry compote, pomegranate and savory spice. Fine purity and intensity with ample weight on the palate. Balanced, nuanced, round, and enough acidity to keep it lifted on the palate. An extremely inviting style with a refined, elegant finish.