Wine Reviews

92

Cigar Box 2024 Pinot Noir, Leyda Valley, Chile ($15)

Rich notes of black cherry and campfire smoke follow a silky path across the palate. Juicy, fresh, and adorned with dark chocolate cranberries. A treat.

96

Clarice 2024 Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County ($98)

Adam Lee’s stunner greets the palate with bright cherry and red beets that simultaneously perfume and flavor. Spiced mulberry, cinnamon, and vanilla-lined rose petals charm. With a medium weight, the persistent attention to texture is aided by a fine acid structure. It finishes with generous, silky red fruit.

90

Cloud Break 2023 “Black Cloud” Red Blend, CA ($10)

A stormy red, its billowy tannins looming alongside espresso, licorice-coasted black currant, and swirling with dark chocolate intensity.

90

Costa do Sol NV Vinho Verde, Portugal ($12)

A fizzy, refreshing stainless steel Vinho Branco that opens with grassy notes. Kiwi, lime, and aprocit brighten on the finish.

88

Cotillion 2023 Pinot Noir, Tri-County, California ($10)

Cinnamon and clove mingle with vanilla and wild strawberry. The dance is inspired by earthy tones and high-toned acidity.

93

Cuvaison 2024 Estate Chardonnay. Los Carneros, Napa Valley ($35)

Flinty, with orange zest – not the bitter pith – but rather a sweet-toned citrus rush. The wine exudes honeyed pears and apricots with a slather of and caramel apple. Incredibly inviting.

91

DeLoach 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, CA ($16)

Balanced integration of oak and fruit with a round, satiny mouthfeel. Plum and heather are as flavorful as they are aromatic, with baking spices and tobacco notes on the finish.

91

DeLoach 2024 Zinfandel, CA ($16)

A balanced abv of 13.5% leaves a freshness to this vivacious red. Wild strawberry, balsamic, and licorice are gentled by soft tannins and amped by a bright acidity. Woodsy bramble and cocoa lead to a spiced finish.