Wine Reviews

91

Line 39 2023 Red Blend, California ($11)

A blend of 30% Teraldego, 26% Syrah, 17% Merlot, 12% Touriga Nacional, with fractions of Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot. Full-bodied, ripe, and rich, with delicious flavors of plum and mocha. An emphasis of sweet oak and baking spices linger on the finish.

94

MacRostie 2024 Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County ($38)

Broad and bold, with luscious notes of dark cherry-infused black tea and a pinch of sweet basil. Its satin mouthfeel, juicy and floral-toned, has a savory charm, lifted with a bloom of rosebuds.

93

Magic Bus 2023 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County ($18)

An Earth Mother, generous and savory, with tilled soil, cigar leaf, pomegranate, and red cherry. Its keen acidity reflects on the vanilla spice finish.

93

Malbado 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina ($20)

A strong vintage, demonstrating an earthy, dense core, with satin-lined tannins that grip with seductive charm. Italian herbs spread across notes of cedar, dried violets, and soy sauce. A lip-smacking finish satisfies with smashed blueberries and sage.

91

Martin’s Rake 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ ($13)

A frisky and crisp white with vivid notes of lemon-lime and thyme-kissed vanilla. Pretty and inviting.

94

Mascarin 2022 Dalya Estate Chardonnay, Sonoma Coast ($59)

A zip of jalapeño on fresh orange peel is a striking start for this illuminous white. Steely, with perky lemon sage and dynamic acidity.

94

Mascarin 2023 Moonshine Ranch Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast ($69)

From a vineyard farmed by the celebrated Martinelli Family, this red’s lean frame is a testament to subtle tension. Rose petals in aspic, red herbal tea, and tart cranberry converge. Acidity is so bright, we had to wear sunglasses when tasting.

96

Merry Edwards 2023 Coopersmith Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($75)

This six-acre vineyard sits on the winery’s home ranch, and this vintage was lengthened due to the season’s cooler temperatures. Its sultry mouthfeel is filled with smashed cinnamon cherries and spiced raspberries, lined with cocoa nibs. An earthy core exudes white pepper and oregano, with an exotic finish.