GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Brut Heritage NV, Champagne, France ($47)

A charmer in classic fashion, this blend of 50% Pinot Noir, 30% Meunier, and 20% Chardonnay proffers white flower–strewn scents of sourdough, yellow apple, apricot, and marzipan that reverberate on the fresh and snappy yet fleshy palate along with poached pear in crème Anglaise and lime leaf. The slightly salty finish zings.

97

Quilt 2018 The Grace of the Land Pinot Noir, Napa Valley ($110)

Luxuriously appointed notes of violets on velvet, with a backdrop of black cherry liqueur. Well-structured even though its plush pillow texture is preternatural. Finishes with hints of cassis and dark chocolate.

93

Quilt 2022 Chardonnay, Napa Valley ($35)

Medium bodied, with juicy peach, honeysuckle, and Meyer lemon. Wispy notes of lanolin and a silky vanilla toastiness are endearing.

93

Quilt 2022 Fumé Blanc Reserve, The Grace of the Land, Napa Valley ($35)

Complex aromatics of tropical fruit like lychee and guava, along with grapefruit, gooseberry, bell pepper, thyme, and elderflower. Silky texture. Grapefruit dominates on the palate with nice acidity, minerality, and a mild oak nuance.

91

Ramsay 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, California ($20)

Extroverted flavors of black peppered cherry and cigar leaf. Juicy and bold, with balanced oak and acidity.

92

Reata 2021 Three County Pinot Noir, Sonoma, Monterey & San Benito Counties ($20)

While earthy notes are prevalent, raspberry tart, plum, and cinnamon are bright and cheery. Red tea has a bit of spice, matched with vivid acid structure and a light, buoyant mouthfeel.

91

Reata 2022 Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($20)

Floral notes bloom, with honeyed apple blossom. Peach tart is accented with toasted oak, and acidity is bright.

92

Redbank 2021 Chardonnay, King Valley, Victoria, Australia ($25)

Aged sur lies, this is a luscious white with gardenia, honeysuckle, and lemon blossom. Finishes with crisp Asian pear, dried figs, and a dollop of vanilla wafer.