Wine Reviews

92

Gehricke 2023 Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, Sonoma County ($29)

Hazelnut and banana cream set the stage, laced with lemon meringue. Bright and cheerful, with powdered vanilla and a salty pear finish. Charming.

92

Giesen 0% Rosé Spritz, New Zealand ($16)

The nose is redolent of cranberry and strawberry with a fleeting trace of truffle. Lifted and refreshing, the palate offers a welcome burst of yuzu and quince. The textured finish is expressive and vivacious with echoes of creamy lees.

91

Giesen 0% Sauvignon Blanc Spritz, New Zealand ($16)

Freshness abounds with a persistent hint of citrus, notably candied lemon tart. This non-alcoholic sparkler is blissfully easy to drink. The palate is nuanced with a surprising amount of heft despite the absence of alcohol. It finishes with traces of pear skin, white pepper and lime tang.

96

Goldschmidt Vineyards 2022 Yoeman Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Sonoma Cty ($75)

Cedar-cinnamon advances on ripe red plum and black cherry. Anchored in sweet tobacco, red licorice, and a persistent stream of bold fruit and blue flowers, its vibrant acid structure leaves a striking energy, while tannins leave a satin finish.

95

Grand Napa Vineyards 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley ($145)

Muscular and versatile, this Cabernet Sauvignon commands an audience. There are layers of flavor that unfold throughout, with blueberry, nutmeg, clove, oolong tea and a hint of mint. The final coda is supple and evolves with hoisin and cured meats and dark chocolate for a finishing flourish that sings.

93

GrapeHeart 2017 GHV Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Suisun Valley AVA, Solano Cty, CA ($48)

This dense and dusty single-vineyard red was aged 20 months in French oak. Ripe boysenberry is painted over by mocha, lavishing flavors on suede tannins. Violets emerge mid-point, bursting with aroma and adding to a creamy mouthfeel.

93

GrapeHeart 2017 GHV Estate Petite Sirah, Reserve, Suisun Valley AVA, Solano Cty, CA ($38)

A small production, single-vineyard estate red, with staggering mineral tones on a firm base. Tannins are present and in place with an impressive structure. It possesses notes of roasted coffee, bittersweet dark chocolate, and an inner serenity, which keeps it balanced and approachable.

91

Guinigi 2024 Pinot Grigio, D.O.C. Delle Venezie, Italy ($14)

A wash of pear and lemon blossom are laced with a mineral component. Green apple offers a tart, puckering sensation. Floral notes, a lilt of pecan, and crème fraiche bring the flavors all together.