GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

91

Franzia NV Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand, 5L Box ($23)

This is proof that box wines have character. Powdered vanilla and crisp green apple, grapefruit, and honeysuckle are carried with grace along a clean path. Pleasant and easy drinking, with sweet basil on the refreshing finish.

90

GrapeHeart Estate 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon, Suisun Valley AVA, CA ($48)

Spending 20 months in French oak, the taste of barrel, soil, and sun is evident. Tightly wound tannins demonstrate structure and muscle. Blackberry and graphite form a bond, with black pepper sparkling a mid-palate celebration. Tension, and a flow of black cherry adds depth to the finish.

97

Hawk & Horse 2023 Block Three Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills AVA, Lake County ($85)

With 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Petit Verdot, this pin-pointed site sits on rocky, volcanic soils at an elevation of 2,200 feet. With a foundation of graphite, dried violets, and dark chocolate-covered blackberries, is a stunning velvet carpet mouthfeel. Chewy tannins connect with a mesmerizing finish of leather and rich blue fruit.

94

Hawk & Horse Vineyards 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Hills AVA, Lake County ($75)

Aside from teeth-grabbing tannins and am inner tension, this elegant red owns up to its aromatic foundation of violets and blackberries. Soy sauce and mocha settle on mid-palate, with graphite adding a persistent, structured mouthfeel.

91

Hologram 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley ($22)

Minerality shows itself through an oyster shell lens. The wine’s herbal lift of grass and nettle leaves a lasting impression along with Key lime and barely ripened pineapple.

92

Interpretation 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County ($24)

Violets are distinctive in aroma, flavor, and texture, accompanying dark chocolate, plum, and drying notes of graphite crossing the palate. Chewy tannins release a wash of sweet boysenberry.

89

Interpretation 2024 Chardonnay, Carneros ($28)

Crisp, with searing acidity as its key player. Lemon zest and cedar possess starring roles.

90

Interpretation 2024 Chardonnay, Sonoma County ($18)

Toasty, with a vibrant array of orange peel and vanilla, amped by buoyant acidity.