GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

95

Optik 2023 Pinot Noir, Solomon Hills Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara Co ($50)

Cherries soaked in cinnamon, with iron filings and an earthy frame create a lively, eye-opening, well-paced red. White pepper glazes over the palate, holing up notes of Rooibos tea and red beets, with a nod to sandalwood on the cooling finish.

95

optik 2023 Syrah, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara Co. ($50)

Winemaker Joey Tensley certainly has a way with Syrah, and from this vineyard it is certainly a super star. A coating of licorice and tarry plum demonstrates concentration and confidence. A line-up of fresh herbs and crushed boysenberry lengthens on the palate, with a dot of black pepper and a glide of sleek minerality.

92

Oya Pointe 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($17)

Startling grassy notes surrounded by lemon-lime sorbet and freshly squeezed grapefruit. Acidity revives with each sip, while mineral tones cleanse the palate.

93

Performance 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($45)

Dramatic and bold, with dense layers of espresso, black plum, cassis, and pipe tobacco. Tannins are suede-lined; drying and yet balanced with an elegant restraint.

90

Projection 2024 Chardonnay, North Coast ($14)

Magnetic, lush notes of Golden apple and pie crust, sparked by salty mineral tones. Summer crisp pear is a highlight, with brisk acidity.

93

Psagot 2024 Sinai “M” Series, Jerusalem Mountain, Israel ($29)

This robust red is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Shiraz, and 18% Malbec. Spiced sandalwood is tempered with bright cherry, mocha, and plum. Tannins are round but sturdy enough to prove its prowess of concentrated mountain fruit.

92

Psagot 2024 Sinai White Blend, Israel ($25)

A blend of 70% Gewurztraminer, with Sauvignon Blanc and Viognier. Juicy and creamy with notes of lychee, fresh linen, jasmine rice, and lime blossom. Cleanses the palate with an herbal glisten.

94

Rhys 2023 Chardonnay, Anderson Valley ($49)

Mineral-driven, with lemon sorbet, green apple, and chervil are all assisted by stark acidity. A veil of salty pears and waterlilies are angelically delicate on the steely finish.