GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

95

Rutherford Hill 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($50)

A dynamo, with a bold burst of black currant and plum. Layers of earthy nuances appear, such as truffles and chocolate-flavored tobacco. A toasty finish balances out its oak and acidity.

95

Sea Smoke 2023 Southing Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills ($95)

An intricate yet absolutely seamless expression of Sea Smoke’s estate vineyard, this Pinot opens oh-so-gracefully with aromas of cranberry, brown fig, tobacco, and soil seasoned by fennel seed and Christmas spice. Grounded in crunchy but fine tannins, the palate delivers on the elegant promise of the nose—from its silky texture and top note of white-peppered pomegranate to its blueberry-toned finish.

95

Smith-Madrone 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley ($65)

With 17.7% Cabernet Franc and a touch of Merlot, this majestic Cab offers a woodsy opening, with grainy tannins. It’s packed with strawberry creaminess that flirts with vanilla and violets. An elegant red, possessing an on-going veil of floral and sweet herbal tones, with a grip of graphite on the finish.

91

Social Bird 2024 Rosé, Cotes de Provence, France ($23)

It offers excellent palate weight and impressive depth of flavor. Made from 38% Grenache, 31% Cinsault, 10% Syrah, 8% Carignan, 7% Mourvèdre, and 6% Rolle, it finishes with nice freshness and will continue showing well for months to come.

93

Storyteller 2023 Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($25)

Seasoned by garden herbs and a sleek minerality, notes of tobacco and fennel intricately weave through dark cherry and wild strawberry.

91

Tangent 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast ($15)

Basil-kissed green apple, jasmine rice, green tea, and lie chiffon unite for a sleek profile. Notes of kiwi and gardenia chime in on the finish.

91

The Icon Rock 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Aconcagua, Chile ($15)

Grapefruit zest, lanolin, Key lime, and laurel are clean and crisp. The palate is refreshed with each lively sip.

92

Tiaki 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($19)

Lime and honeydew are enmeshed in an herbal garden of basil, chervil, and dill. With tightrope acidity and a stony charm, this is a perfect wine for oysters and Caesar salad.