GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

90

Ironstone 2022 Old Vine Zinfandel, Lodi ($14)

Brambly, with ripe, juicy boysenberry and plum. Full-bodied, with plush, round tannins.

94

Ironstone 2023 Reserve Meritage, Sierra Foothills AVA ($42)

Milk-chocolate textured, chewy tannins frame expressive notes of blackberry and tobacco leaf. Fruit is elegant, juicy; extracted and fresh rather than jammy. Teeth-coating, dusted sandalwood adds length and complexity to the finish.

94

Kith & Kin 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($50)

Super ripe boysenberry jam and chalky tannins connect for a restrained, plush mouthfeel. Mocha-cherry chocolate enters mid-point, with lifted noted of white peppered tobacco leaf that dried the palate, while the richness of the wine never fades.

90

Leia Vintners 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, CA ($17)

Stark acidity augments the vivacious grapefruit and star fruit notes. Salty and clean on the finish.

91

Leia Vintners 2025 Rosé, CA ($14)

Vivacious notes of pink grapefruit, rose petals, Rainier cherries, and hibiscus light up the glass. Acidity is bright and allows floral tones to glisten on nose and palate.

92

Lion’s Ridge 2023 Special Reserve Red Blend, Central Coast ($30)

Juicy and bold, with prominent notes of espresso and cassis. A dense line-up of tobacco and Worcestershire complete the cycle, with a bittersweet dark chocolate finish.

93

Lion’s Ridge 2024 Special Reserve Chardonnay, Central Coast ($24)

Sophisticated and polished, with peach nectar, honeysuckle, and vanilla cream. The sweet oak on the finish is dreamy.

94

Lion’s Ridge 2024 Special Reserve Pinot Noir, Central Coast ($29)

Wild cherry, milk chocolate, cranberry, and wilted rose petals cradle high-toned acidity for an ethereal mouthfeel. Well crafted and beautifully balanced.