GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

Merry Edwards 2021 Chardonnay, Olivet Lane Vineyard, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Co ($68)

Whole cluster pressed and aged sur lie nine months in (47% new) French oak, this heritage property [owned by the Pelligrini family] is home to these coveted grapes. Abundant, mouth-filling beauty with notes of crème brulée, lemon zest, and vanilla cedar.

96

Merry Edwards 2021 Pinot Noir, Meredith Estate, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($90)

Now organically farmed, this wine off Meredith Estate is an attention-getting, dynamic red with tropical flowers blooming start to finish. Black cherries gather in a concentrated “sauce.” Sweet and tart notes are accented by a well-placed salinity.

94

Merry Edwards 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($50)

Barrel fermented and aged sur lie for five months in (18% new) French oak, the wine glistens with Meyer lemon and honeydew. Pineapple, gardenia, and sweet basil line the palate, lending a zingy profile to a finish of salty minerality.

95

Mollydooker 2021 Blue-Eyed Boy Shiraz, South Australia ($60)

The Marquis family have been making wine since 1987. This Shiraz is named after Sarah Marquis’s son Luke, who travels the world promoting the business. Although it comes in at 16 percent abv, the wine shows balance in its intensity, with tamed notes of black licorice, graphite, and a bloom of violets. Mocha notes surround luscious black cherry, gracefully, while a prickle of pepper dots the tongue on the seamless finish.

96

Mollydooker 2021 Carnival of Love Shiraz, McLaren Vale, Australia ($90)

Winemaker Sarah Marquis crafts an intense, dark fruited Shiraz with spice, black pepper, and a hint of bacon. Blackberry and plum are lively and energetic like a bustling carnival with bright lights and multisensory expression – this is not a side show wine.

92

Mollydooker 2021 The Boxer Shiraz, South Australia ($30)

In Australia, a left-handed boxer is called Molly Dooker. Aromas of dark chocolate and blue flowers permeate the glass. Ripe blackberry is bathed in mocha. With slate and licorice delivering an uppercut of ripe purple plum, the wine’s confident swagger enhances its creamy finish.

93

Muriel 2017 Fincas de la Villa Reserva, Rioja DOC, Spain ($22)

Streamlined mouthfeel, augmented by creamy red pepper and black cherry. Old world acidity maintains a freshness. Oregano, marjoram, and nutmeg season oak and dried roses.

94

Muriel Viñas Viejas 2014 Gran Reserva, Rioja DOC, Spain ($32)

Age certainly shows its beauty here, with dried lavender, balsamic, and wild strawberry. Striking acidity keeps it fresh, with a light cedar spice on the melting caramel finish.