Wine Reviews

92

Raymond 2024 R Collection Merlot, CA ($16)

A dignified, ripe, and robust red, with dark chocolate, espresso, and spiced black cherries. The inspired artwork on the label references Italian renaissance painter Marco d’Oggiono’s “Girl with Cherries,” circa 1491.

93

Raymond 2024 R Collection Sauvignon Blanc, CA ($16)

Capturing the essence on the label of an illustration by English physician and botanical writer Robert John Thornton’s 1807 work “Cupid Inspiring Plants with Love,” this wine shines with vivid notes of just-squeezed grapefruit. Perky acidity and a line of salinity ignite layers of vanilla, kiwi, and gardenia.

91

Revelation by Goose Ridge 2024 Revelation Rosé, Goose Cap AVA, WA ($20)

This is a very well made rosé with juicy aromas and flavors of strawberry and watermelon that remain very fresh. Blended from 67% Syrah, 24% Merlot, 5% Pinot Gris, 2% Grenache, and 2% Mourvèdre, it offers ripe fruit flavors but no sugary sweetness. Fine acidity enlivens the flavors and makes this a promising partner for pairing with food or just for sipping.

92

Rhonéa 2022 Confidence, Beaumes-de-Venise, Rhône Valley, France ($25)

A Syrah/Grenache blend with spark. Roses shine, augmented with black pepper and orange peel. Bold and impressive, with a garden of herbs accenting black cherry and plum. Tannins are supple and the finish is enduring.

93

Robert Hall 2022 Artisan Collection Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ($17)

An elegant and expressive Cab with a silky mouthfeel. Oak comes through with notes of confectionary vanilla, joining dark cherry and black plum and cocoa.

91

Robert Hall 2022 Artisan Collection Merlot, Paso Robles ($17)

Roasted coffee, graphite, and ripe mocha-plum stream across the palate. Mid-point salinity engages with cherry sandalwood, showcasing a bright light within, for a long, mouth-watering finish.

91

Robert Hall 2023 Artisan Collection Sauvignon Blanc, Paso Robles ($15)

Fresh acidity highlights stone fruit and crisp lemon/lime. Garden herbs add depth to its linear frame.

91

Robert Mondavi 2023 Private Selection Bourbon Barrel-Aged Cabernet Sauvignon, CA ($13)

Aromas of cherries soaked in cedar permeate the glass. Concentrated and robust, with coffee and toasted almond framed by plum jam.