Wine Reviews

91

Line 39 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, CA ($11)

A bold expressive Cab with tart cherry, cocoa, and a hint of tobacco. Robustly structured with tannins that can stand up to a savory steak dinner.

90

Line 39 2023 Pinot Noir, CA ($11)

Juicy and clean, with a salty mineral base. Cherry jam, sweet tobacco, and red tea are integrated into a palate-pleasing Pinot.

91

Line 39 2024 Chardonnay, CA ($11)

With a hint of oak, this delicious white delivers fresh notes of green apple, toffee, and sandalwood.

92

Line 39 2024 Pinot Grigio, CA ($11)

Luscious notes of lemon meringue, honeysuckle, and pear tart indicate this wine over exceeds in performance for the price point. Jasmine and lavender lend additional floral tones to the long finish.

93

Lobster Reef 2022 Pinot Noir, Marlborough, New Zealand ($18)

This is a delight, with pepper, paprika and rosemary spicing things up alongside juicy cranberry and pine that pops on the palate. There is a refreshing purity that piques the intrigue, lifted with tannins that tickle and a bright, zesty finish.

92

Lobster Reef 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand ($14)

This is no wallflower, with a nose redolent of candied lime, honeysuckle, and grilled green pepper. This wine has its sea legs and will make you pucker up with briny oyster and a crisp saline sensation buoyed with lemon and chalk for a bright, juicy delight.

91

Long Barn 2024 Chardonnay, California ($12)

There’s a subtlety that blossoms with no small amount of charm as it rests in the glass. Redolent with acacia, marshmallow creme and a hint of fresh vanilla bean, there is a powerful restraint with flashes of flair that is beguiling.

96

Lorenzi 2021 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Hillside Vineyard, Temecula Valley ($165)

Tobacco-spiced cedar and teeth-grabbing tannins dry the palate, even with aging for 36 months in 100% new French oak, and with additional bottle aging. Rich notes of smashed plum, beef broth, and black-peppered earth make a statement of elegant power.