( 91 ) Buttonwood Grove Cabernet Franc 2021 ( NY ). With supple tannins and lovely dark fruit , this Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc demonstrates the quality and food-friendly nature of this often-overlooked variety . This example possesses lots of clean dark fruit , with the subtlest of spice and a touch of cocoa powder . The tannins are nicely balanced , and contribute to the lengthy , balanced finish . ($ 24.99 )

( 90 ) L ’ Ecole Semillon 2022 ( WA ). Vibrant and refreshing with layers of stone fruit , honeysuckle , lemon and pear . Sustainably managed , beautiful , complex and perfect for a summer picnic with fresh tuna

salad sandwiches and pommes frites . ($ 22 )

( 90 ) The Paring Chardonnay 2022 ( CA ). The 2022 Paring Chardonnay reveals a bright and inviting straw-yellow hue . On the nose , it opens with a bouquet of ripe tropical fruits — notably pineapple and mango — interwoven with fragrant notes of citrus blossom and hints of vanilla from subtle oak aging . Flavors of juicy apple , lemon zest and a hint of toasted almond unfold , complemented by a delicate undertone of butterscotch . ($ 24.99 )

( 90 ) Camp Merlot 2022 ( CA ). The 2022 Camp Merlot pours a deep , rich ruby color

with purple hues around the edges , exhibiting good clarity and a medium to full body . The nose presents a bouquet of ripe dark fruits like black cherries , plums and blackberries , with subtle notes of cocoa , vanilla and freshly turned earth . On the palate , it offers a smooth texture with flavors of dark fruit , chocolate , cedar and licorice , balanced by refreshing acidity . The finish is long and satisfying , with lingering dark fruit , a hint of spice and well-integrated , silky tannins . ($ 19.99 )

( 90 ) Sean Minor Pinot Noir 2022 ( CA ). On the palate , it is medium bodied with a smooth , silky texture , revealing a medley of juicy red fruits like cherry and cranberry , layered with

pomegranate and a touch of mushroom . The wine ' s bright acidity and well-integrated tannins create a harmonious balance , leading to a refreshing , long finish accented by lingering notes of red fruit , a hint of vanilla and a delicate minerality . ($ 27.99 )

( 90 ) Savage Grace Côt ( WA ). A rare light-bodied Malbec with lifted aromatics of plum and black tea . ($ 36 ) •

WINE PANEL If you are a beverage professional with a specialty in wine who is interested in participating in the panel , please contact Editor Kyle Swartz at kswartz @ epgacceleration . com .

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Fall 2024 • Cheers 33