Wine Reviews

94

Dutton-Goldfield 2023 Chardonnay, Dutton Ranch, Russian River Valley ($50)

Gilded with a rich golden hue, this is a complex and layered Chardonnay. Barrel-fermented and aged in 40% New French Oak barrels, the flavors are delicate with buoyant lift, including notes of savory apple pith, toast, vanilla and dried mango. This is a happy marriage of elegance and verve with a denouement of apple crumble and cinnamon that make it irresistible.

94

Dutton-Goldfield 2023 Pinot Noir, Dutton Ranch, Russian River Valley ($60)

A Pinot Noir of intrigue, eager and elegant aromatics pop with hints of cranberries, tea leaves and cherry cobbler. Aged in 40% New French Oak, tannins are perky and the finish endures. A riot of savory characteristics add complexity, with sage, thyme and clove partnering with a firm, angular edge.

90

Firebrand 2023 Reserve Chardonnay, California ($11)

Creamy, full-bodied white, with warm cedar, pear tart, and almond brittle. A hint of salinity lifts its unctuous body and creates an elegant profile.

89

Firebrand 2024 Chardonnay, California ($11)

Gently toasted oak, lemon meringue, and banana are highlighted through supple tannins and ample acidity.

90

Fogscape Vineyards 2023 Pinot Noir, Arroyo Seco, CA ($25)

Light in body and delicate in texture, this Pinot is well balanced and proportionality is quite good. Well suited to fish dishes or white meats, this will also succeed as a stand-alone sipper.

97

Francis Ford Coppola 2022 Archimedes Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma County ($125)

Inky black, its density on display, with teeth-grabbing, dusty tannins. Majestic and alert, with plum, blackberry, graphite, espresso, and violets, layered for an expressive, complex finish.

94

Gary Farrell 2021 Gap’s Crown Vineyard Pinot Noir, Petaluma Gap, Sonoma ($95)

Basking in a sunshine-filled arena of black cherry, plum, and cinnamon tea, the liquid fills the mouth with a foundation of mineral tones. Sleek and lean, it is inviting and fresh, with garrigue texturizing the long finish.

93

Gary Farrell 2022 Rochioli-Allen Vineyards Chardonnay, Russian River Valley ($75)

Sumptuous, as it spreads across the palate, swathed in a creamy array of MacIntosh apple and marzipan. A luxurious sip, with spiced sandalwood and white tea.