Wine Reviews

92

Lubanzi 2023 Chenin Blanc, Swartland, South Africa ($15)

Chenin from South Africa is surely among the most delicious of the world’s relatively affordable whites, and this is a strong case in point. Scents of wild honey lead into ripe fruit notes recalling apple pie filling that are lightly sweet but very effectively balanced by a firming edge of citrus acidity. Excellent as a stand-alone sipper but also promising for many spicy dishes.

90

Lubanzi 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Coastal Region, South Africa ($18)

A well grown and smartly styled Sauvignon Blanc, this shows plenty of varietal character. It is bright and refreshing, but without an acidic edge that will be too tart for almost anyone. Medium-bodied with flavors recalling melons and citrus fruits, this will prove broadly popular and successful with many foods.

92

Lubanzi 2023, Cinsault, Swartland, South Africa ($18)

Red fruit notes recalling cranberries and pie cherries are bright and flavorful, but also soft and broad on the palate, thanks to very fine-grained tannins.

92

Luca Bosio di nonna Angela, NV Prosecco Rosé D.O.C., Italy ($16)

Expressively fruity with strawberry and hibiscus. Light-bodied, crisp, and refreshing.

92

Luca Bosio Vineyards “di Nonna Angela,” NV Prosecco DOC, Veneto, Italy ($16)

Aromas of crème fraiche, white rice, and gardenia are subtle, leading to a brisk lemon verbena note on the palate. Honeyed graham cracker and green apple are surrounded by zippy bubbles and high point acidity.

94

Luca Bosio Vineyards 2021 Arneis, Lange, Piedmont, Italy ($20)

Palate cleansing notes of salted almonds, with tart pineapple-mango refreshes with a keen acidity. Honeyed white flowers and lime blossoms accent on nose and palate and continue through a powdered vanilla finish.

92

Luca Bosio Vineyards 2021 Barbera d’Asti, Piedmont, Italy ($18)

Sweet meats, pomegranate, and an earthy core defines this energetic stainless steel-fermented and aged red. Lean, lively, and connected to wild strawberry and salty minerality on the finish.

93

Luca Bosio Vineyards 2021 Moscato d’ Asti DOCG, Piedmont, Italy ($18)

A deliriously delicious sparkler with tangerine and almond weaving through honeysuckle. Bubbles are light and airy, with a crisp acidity keeping freshness on-going.