GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

94

Chalone 2024 Estate Pinot Noir, Chalone AVA, Monterey County ($40)

Rose petals glaze over Morello cherries with a gelée seasoned with cinnamon and savory, meaty aspic. Hints of Bay leaves and umami center on the palate, with a satin-lined mouthfeel.

92

Charles Woodson’s 2023 Intercept Pinot Noir, Monterey County ($20)

Aged with 15-20% new oak, this bold and concentrated red delivers notes of soil, raspberries, and ripe black currants. Tannins are silky, with a lining of white pepper. Sandalwood is seasoned with sweet tobacco on the long finish.

92

Cigar Box 2024 Pinot Noir, Leyda Valley, Chile ($15)

Rich notes of black cherry and campfire smoke follow a silky path across the palate. Juicy, fresh, and adorned with dark chocolate cranberries. A treat.

96

Clarice 2024 Pinot Noir, Rosella’s Vineyard, Santa Lucia Highlands, Monterey County ($98)

Adam Lee’s stunner greets the palate with bright cherry and red beets that simultaneously perfume and flavor. Spiced mulberry, cinnamon, and vanilla-lined rose petals charm. With a medium weight, the persistent attention to texture is aided by a fine acid structure. It finishes with generous, silky red fruit.

90

Cloud Break 2023 “Black Cloud” Red Blend, CA ($10)

A stormy red, its billowy tannins looming alongside espresso, licorice-coasted black currant, and swirling with dark chocolate intensity.

90

Costa do Sol NV Vinho Verde, Portugal ($12)

A fizzy, refreshing stainless steel Vinho Branco that opens with grassy notes. Kiwi, lime, and aprocit brighten on the finish.

88

Cotillion 2023 Pinot Noir, Tri-County, California ($10)

Cinnamon and clove mingle with vanilla and wild strawberry. The dance is inspired by earthy tones and high-toned acidity.

93

Cuvaison 2024 Estate Chardonnay. Los Carneros, Napa Valley ($35)

Flinty, with orange zest – not the bitter pith – but rather a sweet-toned citrus rush. The wine exudes honeyed pears and apricots with a slather of and caramel apple. Incredibly inviting.