Wine Reviews

92

Fior di Sole 2023 – 5 X 30 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($20)

This Cabernet punches above its weight class, with a silky texture ribboned with hints of cassis and dark cherry. The edges are plush and inviting, the vinous equivalent of a comforting lullaby. This red named for the dimensions of Napa Valley (5 miles wide and 30 miles long) is chockablock full of pure pleasure.

92

FITVINE 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, CA ($15)

Gluten free and zero sugar, with a low abv of 13.5 percent adds up to a well-balanced, dry red with high-toned acidity and a spicy character. Pomegranate and candied apple take center stage, with a touch of salinity on the energetic finish.

91

FITVINE 2023 Pinot Noir, CA ($15)

Plum and black pepper merge for an intense red with balanced acidity. Savory notes of cigar leaf and soy sauce are savory while violets and boysenberry add verve.

90

FITVINE 2023 Red Blend, CA ($15)

Taste the fruit first – generous plum and crushed blackberry, with underlying notes of roasted coffee and sandalwood.

90

FITVINE 2024 Chardonnay, CA ($15)

A linear, cut-glass style, with prominent citrus notes that cleanse the palate. Zippy acidity leaves a lasting freshness.

91

Fitvine Free Non-Alcoholic Sparkling White ($15)

Made from Chardonnay verjus, the fresh juice from early harvested grapes, this cheerful bubbly is peachy clean, with an inner brightness and soft mousse that reveals lime chiffon.

91

FITVINE NV Prosecco Extra Brut, Prosecco DOC, Italy ($18)

A low 11% abv, low sugar and only 97 calories define this crisp and refreshing sparkler. Notes of ripe lemon zest invigorate the palate.

95

Five Stones 2020 Virtuous Red, Judean Hills, Israel ($99)

Located in Tel Azekah in the Elah Valley, Five Stones Vineyard, on fertile alluvial soils, lies at the crossroads between Israel’s coastal plain and Jerusalem. This is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot, and 10% Malbec. Flavors of cedar and blackberry merge into a suede-lined, opulence. Energetic, with a broad wash of black raspberry and cherry. Graphite, new leather, and sweet tobacco gather momentum, but the fruit dominates at the end.