GUINIGI

Wine Reviews

89

Geyser Peak Winery 2024 Chardonnay, California ($14)

Toasted coconut cream, banana, and lemon-tipped white rice are bountiful and delicious starting with the first sip. Mid-palate notes of chamomile flowers add depth.

93

Goldschmidt Singing Tree 2024 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley $22)

Aged in 80% concrete and 20% French oak (with partial ML), this wine’s vocal range is in the key of “G” for gorgeous. Modern and fresh, with lively notes of yellow apple, honeysuckle, pear tart, and peach blossom. A line of minerality adds to its clarity.

93

Goose Ridge StoneCap 2023 Chardonnay, Columbia Valley, WA ($16)

Restrained in both its aromatic and flavor presentation but not inexpressive in either regard, this is an exceptionally classy Chardonnay at its price level. Oak influence is muted but still detectable, with subtle accents of woodsmoke and spices swirling around a core of fruit recalling peaches and ripe Golden apples. An overachiever for either sipping or dining.

92

Goose Ridge Vineyards 2022 G3 Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, WA ($16)

Velvet-lined tannins and a dollop of creamy boysenberry set the stage for a most approachable Cab. Baking spices add character, with a tongue-coating finish of licorice and black plum.

92

Goose Ridge Vineyards 2022 G3 Merlot, Columbia Valley, WA ($16)

A bruiser Merlot with bold notes of espresso, cigar leaf, graphite, and dark chocolate plum. However, suede tannins even out its broad shoulders, leaving a refined red with a lengthy finish.

94

Grand Napa Vineyards 2023 Pinot Noir, Los Carneros, Napa Valley ($70)

The first sip is pure satin, the edges are rounded and the fruit is supple and ripe. The flavors are boundless, with cedar, cranberry, plum and strawberry riding a pillow of vanilla clutching a blanket of rhubarb. There’s mystery and intrigue with notes emerging and expanding at every swirl and every swish. Black pepper and aloe and blood orange offer a final flourish.

94

Grand Napa Vineyards 2024 Chardonnay, Los Carneros, Napa Valley ($60)

The fullness of benevolent tension is center stage. A touch of spun honey drips from the notes of fresh apples skins, yuzu and tangy meringue. A touch of peach and a touch of honeysuckle tease. A holistic wine that is expertly crafted, the disparate tastes coalesce for an experience that is greater than the sum of its parts.

91

Harken 2024 Barrel-Fermented Chardonnay, CA ($15)

Buttery! Oaky! True to its style, with white-peppered caramel and lemon curd. Ample acidity maintains liveliness.