GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

90

Dellatorri 2024 Chianti DOCG, Tuscany, Italy ($11)

Bright acidity warrants attention, lifting desirable notes of tart cherry, balsamic, and black tea. Over-delivers at this price.

92

Des Barons Edmond & Benjamin de Rothschild 2023 Montagne Saint-Emilion Contrôlée, Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France ($35)

A stunning red blend of 80% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Dried violets and tart cherry are balanced with lean minerality and bright acidity. Subtle hints of graphite, fennel, and laurel on the finish. Aged 12 months in French oak.

92

Dial Tone 2024 Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County ($29)

An approachable, delicious red with cranberry and cherry tomato freshness. Raspberry gelée and cherry pipe tobacco pair up, ringing in balance thanks to a fine acidity.

93

District Series 2024 District No. Seven Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County ($24)

Stunning aromas and flavors of ripe berries and mocha, followed by a refreshing acidity. Tannins are plush and result in an approachable, juicy, and vivid red.

94

Domaine de la Rivière 2023 Flora Marie Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($78)

Spending eight months in (40% new) French oak followed by three months in stainless steel, this Montrachet clone Chardonnay goes to show that succulence and sophistication aren’t mutually exclusive. Compelling aromas of golden apple, dried fig, and shortbread lead the way to a medium body that introduces quince and a soupçon of saffron to the mix; lime leaf unfurls en route to the long, peach-tinged finish.

92

Domaine de la Rivière 2023 Next Door Neighbor Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($68) 

Aged for 11 months in (33% new) French oak, this Old Wente clone Chardonnay is as soft and smooth as could be for all its spice. Entwined with linden flower, vanilla- and nutmeg-sprinkled scents of young pineapple and pear reconvene fluently on the palate with a dollop of lime curd.

96

Domaine de la Rivière 2023 Pinot Noir, El Diablo Vineyard, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Co ($110)

Cinnamon red hots and spiced cedar ramp up the assertiveness of El Diablo himself. Thanks to a lithe mouthfeel and stirringly high-toned acidity, ripe red cherries and tomato leaf open the gates for a streamlined elegance. The earthy finish is perked up by salty cranberries.

98

Domaine de la Rivière 2023 Pinot Noir, Heritage Block, Vineyard Eleven, Russian River Valley, Sonoma Co ($90)

Designed with focus and finesse. Rhubarb and cranberry meet up with basil and cherry pipe tobacco. There’s some tension between the lines – it’s a glorious tightly woven texture like suede chaps – with a salty mineral finish.