Wine Reviews

92

Bollini 2024 Pinot Grigio, Vigneti delle Dolomiti IGT, Italy ($20)

Fleshy and flavorful but still quite pure and refreshing, this offers appealing aromas of pears and ripe Golden apples. A faint streak of sweetness seems clearly derived from ripe fruit rather than unfermented sugar, and well-measured acidity lends just the right edge to the finish.

92

Bollini 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Trevenezie IGT, Italy ($20)

A Sauvignon Blanc that presents classic varietal character with herbal and citrus notes present in both the aromas and flavors, this is nevertheless not a cookie-cutter example. Surprising richness in the mid-palate and more notable minerality than most Sauvignons grown outside of Sancerre make this a standout, and an attractive price lends additional appeal.

91

Ca’ Momi 2024 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley ($25)

Aged for 20 months in French and American oak, notes of cardamom and clove-spiced cherries are juicy and concentrated. Vanilla-coconut stands out at mid-palate, with breezy tannins reinforcing its approachable nature.

91

Cabernario No. 3 Cabernet Sauvignon, Maipo Valley, Chile ($20)

Aromas of sweet tobacco and boysenberry pie are delighful. On the palate, sturdy tannins hold up flavors with determination and energy. Black cherry and purple plum are integrated into a wash of cinnamon-cedar. Extroverted and lively!

90

Cabernario No.5 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina ($22)

This blend of 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Malbec grips the tongue and teeth with sturdy tannins. Blackberry is covered in graphite and black tea. It maintains personality plus and thanks to a fine acid structure, pairs well with dishes like grilled meats and stews.

94

Campeador 2019 Rioja DOCa, Spain ($20)

This wine defines nuance. Aromatics billow from the glass, including bitter chocolate, graphite, coconut, dill, and blackberry. After aging in American casks, the tannins provide a textured and silky mouthfeel that persist gracefully. This Rioja is like a dancer, showcasing balance and complexity while remaining light on its feet without compromising a firm structure.

98

Caparzo 2019 Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Toscana, Italy ($111)

Deep, rich, and ultimately delicious, thanks to layers of flavors that parade across the palate. Dark chocolate cherries, leather, grilled meats, violets, and cinnamon-tobacco contribute to its complexity. Acidity refreshes on the elegant finish.

94

Caparzo 2020 “La Casa” Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Toscana, Italy ($93)

Stoic, with well-structured tannins that deliver tension and grip. Basil, oregano, and white pepper season pomegranate, quince, and black cherry. Forest floor and red tea combine for an opulent finish.