Wine Reviews

93

California Press 2024 Chardonnay, CA ($17)

Crushed stone meets lemon drop purity, for a lithe and lovely sipper. One can taste the pedigree here; its vivid notes of pineapple and white tea flowers are radiant.

92

Crossbow 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County ($24)

Distinguished character, with plush, approachable tannins. Dark chocolate melds with garden herbs, flint, and black currant. The long finish offers ripe black fruit and a touch of sandalwood.

93

Daou 2024 Frame of Mind Pessimist Red Blend, Paso Robles ($20)

This French-oak aged blend of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and Syrah is elegant and powerful, with stunning aromas and flavors of blueberry, violets, and dark chocolate. Streamlined and well built.

92

Daou 2025 Frame of Mind Optimist Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast ($20)

My glass was certainly more than half full for this outstanding white. Jasmine and apricot nectar are shiny, flavorful, and aromatic. Grassy notes evolve at mid-point, with thyme, basil, and grapefruit keeping us on our toes.

94

Daou Family Estates 2022 Bodyguard Chardonnay, Paso Robles ($40)

Woodsy notes are followed by coconut-marshmallow and lemon cookie. Splashy and vivacious, this ultra-elegant Chardonnay possesses structure and balance. It maintains a rich character without being over-indulgent: which means great balance.

94

Daou Vineyards 2023 Bodyguard Red Blend, Paso Robles ($40)

Plush, velvet-lined tannins are streamlined as they brace up against the wine’s inherent chalky nature. Boysenberry, plum liqueur, violets, and dark roasted coffee beans add depth to an already lacquered and layered red.

99

Daou Vineyards 2023 Soul of a Lion, Adelaida District, Paso Robles ($150)

Velvet-lioned tannins manage to have the power to hold on to teeth and palate. A majestic red that comes in with a roar, gentled by its poise and presence. The blend of 76% Cabernet, 15% Cabernet Franc, and 6% Petit Verdot exhibits notes of graphite, violets, blackberry, tobacco, and coffee bean. It’s power levels off to a refined, harnessed purr for an ideal finish.

93

District Series 2025 Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley ($21)

Ethereal notes of lemon meringue, tangerine sorbet, and balanced acidity bring out a wine of graceful subtlety.