Wine Reviews

93

Tablas Creek Vineyard 2024 “Alouette” Grenache, Adelaida District, Paso Robles ($35)

In its second vintage, this light-crimson hued Grenache almost comes across visually as a rosé. Mineral tones preside over flavors of watermelon and cranberry. Pink peppercorns and sweet basil are framed by a bolt of acidity.

93

Tablas Creek Vineyard 2024 Côtes de Tablas Blanc, Adelaida District, Paso Robles ($40)

A blend of five estate-grown varieties: Viognier, Marsanne, Grenache Blanc, Picardan, and Clairette Blanche. Creamy, with clove-spiced peach tart. Pecan, tapioca pudding, anise, and lemon verbena converge over chalky minerality. Complex and clean.

94

Tablas Creek Vineyard 2024 Patelin de Tablas Blanc, Paso Robles ($30)

A blend of 40% Grenache Blanc, 29% Viognier, 10% Vermentino with some Roussanne, Marsanne, and Picpoul Blanc. Creamy, with notes of bread dough, hazelnut, melon, tangerine peel, and honeysuckle. Thyme and sage, with a hint of white pepper weaves through peach pie. Crisp and floral.

92

Tangent 2024 Pinot Gris, Central Coast ($15)

Lively and crisp, with apricot sorbet, lemon blossom, and a mineral tonality. Acidity continues to spark life into it, with a fresh, perky finish.

91

Tattoo Girl 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Columbia Valley, WA ($14)

A grassy perfume stimulates the senses. On the palate, jasmine and candied pineapple are striking flavors, with a clean line of Key lime sorbet on the bright finish.

90

Tattoo Girl NV Bubbly Wine, Columbia Valley, WA ($16)

This blend of 77% Riesling with some Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, and Sauvignon Blanc takes on the character of a clean, stainless steel refresher. Aromas of beignet and pine nuts lead to a cheerful array of white flowers and lemon meringue. Acidity is highlighted with a tang of green apple on the finish.

92

Textbook 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles ($27)

Juicy, ripe, and succulent, with notes of chocolate-laced licorice, black raspberry jam, and Worcestershire sauce. Clove makes a mark at mid-palate, with a nod to a creamy mouthfeel. An added 5% Petite Sirah adds to its luxe density. Aged 14 months in French oak, a great addition to the Pey Family’s classic editions.

92

The Atom 2023 Pinot Noir, California ($13)

The seductive nose of cranberry and cedar blooms and grows with each swirl of the glass. Crafted with a delicate yet firm structure, herbs de provence and a savory spice rack pair seamlessly with juicy freshness and berry flavors that pop and please from the front to the finish.