GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

MacRostie 2021 Pinot Noir, Walala Vineyard, West Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($66)

Striking notes of sea-salted rose petals in aspic. Spiced mulberry has a fragrant holiday charm, with cherrywood gently tripping on the tongue. The vineyard, 1200 feet in elevation, is centered above the Pacific coastline.

96

MacRostie 2021 The Key Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($75)

Winemaker Heidi Bridenhagen sources grapes from three renowned vineyards and the winery’s best barrels. A chorus of Meyer lemon and zingy pineapple rings true on the nose, with pitch-perfect presence on the palate. Ethereal and streamlined with honeyed cashew, lime chiffon, and sweet basil.

89

Mas La Chevalière 2022 Petit Chardonnay – Low Alcohol, IGP Pays DOC, France ($17)

At only 80 calories, and low alcohol, this light-bodied white is crisp, with traces of apple, pear, and white flowers.

91

Matte 2021 Pinot Noir, California ($15)

A concentrated, intense Pinot Noir with dried fruits, plum preserves, and milk chocolate. Tomato leaf and balsamic create a commanding, savory finish.

94

Merry Edwards 2021 Pinot Noir, Richaven Vineyards, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($80)

A small production, hand-crafted, well-developed red. Slate, soy sauce, dark chocolate, and underbrush exhibit its engine power. Plum and black cherry add sumptuous fruit and augment its velvet mouthfeel. Jasmine and violets take flight, for an exemplary floral finish.

93

Meyye Wines 2015 Palachchak Zinfandel, Shenandoah Valley, California ($70)

This 2015 vintage displays wonderfully complex and harmonious aromas. The flavors are abundant with brambly berry notes, and though the texture is soft, there’s enough tannic structure to support the wine’s abundant ripeness.

95

Minus Tide 2021 Pinot Noir, Manchester Ridge Vineyard, Mendocino Ridge, Mendocino ($48)

Juicy and bright, with brushy notes, notably white pepper, and oregano. Pomegranate and black cherry dig deep into an earthy layer. Acidity adds oomph, but its savory qualities are memorable. The Vineyard lies at 2,000 feet in elevation and part of the Mendocino Ridge appellation, the only non-contiguous AVA in the U.S.

92

Minus Tide 2021 Syrah, Valenti Vineyard, Mendocino Ridge, Mendocino ($42)

Vineyard elevations reaching 1,600 provide the fruit for this powerful red. Pepper stands out alongside black plum and dried violets. A base of roasted coffee bean and charcuterie add to its French accent.