Wine Reviews

93

Caparzo 2020 Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, Toscana, Italy ($54)

Earthy aromas lead to a suede mouthfeel, adorned with sweet tobacco, toasty mocha, Luxardo cherry, and a hint of balsamic. Acidity beams brightly among its savory character.

93

Caparzo 2023 Rosso di Montalcino DOC, Toscana, Italy ($27)

In its youth, the freshness is displayed through just-ripened red cherry, cinnamon-sugared rose petals, and spiced cranberry. The balance of acid and tannins contributes to a refreshing finish, silky and long, with subtle hints of freshly tilled soil.

93

Castoro Cellars 2024 Estate Chardonnay, Paso Robles ($19)

Vanilla and green apple skins bask alongside a charming bouquet of honeysuckles and geranium. The mouthfeel and subsequent flavors are hedonistic yet dignified, distinguished by a healthy balance of juicy verve and pleasure that nearly veers towards decadent.

90

CK Mondavi NV Merlot, California ($10)

Ripe and spicy, with cinnamon-covered cherries, milk chocolate, plum jam, and toasted almond. Energetic, with ample acidity to field an array of cuisine.

92

Cline Family Cellars 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon, Lake County ($16)

What a find! Volcanic soils lend length and texture, with blueberry-washed mineral tones. Dusty, sturdy tannins and an inner freshness maintain the wine’s exuberance.

91

Cline Family Cellars 2023 Pinot Noir, Mendocino County ($16)

A beautifully balanced, articulate Pinot Noir with spiced red apple, black cherries, and sweet earth.

93

Cline Family Cellars 2024 Sauvignon Blanc, Lake County ($15)

Honeysuckle, pear, and Key lime aromas are bright and irresistible. The wine is crisp and clean, with Meyer lemon and lime sorbet. With a natural crushed stone profile from volcanic soils, the allure of white tea adds a delicate floral tone on the finish.

93

Cline Family Cellars 2024 Viognier, Mendocino County ($15)

The price tag had us fooled – this is a wonderfully balanced, floral white that’s flinty, with succulent pear nectar. Highlights of hyacinth and elderflower are on the verge of viscosity, with added notes of white rice and spiced garden herbs. Held up by a fine acid structure for which this variety often misses out.