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ence on the 290 Wine Trail. 63 % aglianico and 37 % petite sirah, sourced from the High Plains AVA. Aged 30 months in neutral oak. Only 181 cases produced. Soft, silky and herbaceous, with hints of plum, orange and black tea. Perfect with Texas BBQ.($ 59.99)
( 94) Greenwing Cabernet Sauvignon 2023( WA). A newer part of the Duckhorn portfolio; 78 % cabernet with touches of malbec, merlot and syrah for complexity. Aged 16 months in a stainless-steel and French oak regimen. Strawberry, cherry and plum notes, with hints of cranberry and coffee. Great mouthfeel. Very complex, concentered, with a smooth finish.($ 19.99)
( 94) Old Winery Road 2022( CA). Crafted from grapes grown in both Napa and Sonoma, this is a seamless fusion of two iconic regions. Layers of red cherry, blackberry and black currant unfold with decadent notes of cocoa and cinnamon. The structure is refined and elegant, balancing richness and finesse.($ 34.99)
( 94) Analemma Mencia( OR). Biodynamically farmed estate fruit. Very aromatic with lilac, lavender and violets. Light to medium bodied, with a savory side to its silky texture. A bright and lively domestic version of this varietal that is mostly found on the Iberian Peninsula.($ 50)
( 93) 69 Miles Chardonnay 2024( CA). This bombastic chardonnay bursts with concentrated flavors of mango, pear and white peach, buttercream. Despite its opulence, the wine remains beautifully balanced, finishing with a crisp
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lift that keeps it food friendly and refreshing.($ 19.99)
( 93) Harvester Cabernet Sauvignon Creston District 2023( CA). Crafted by Austin Hope, this cabernet showcases the richness of the Creston District with concentrated plum and black cherry flavors. The palate is plush and inviting, finishing with warm notes of sandalwood, clove and nutmeg.($ 39.99)
( 93) The Obscene Proprietary Red Blend 2022( CA). Lush and indulgent, this zinfandel-dominant blend is a decadent treat. Strawberries and whipped cream aromas lead into a palate of blackberry compote, melted chocolate and baking spices flavors and silk, plush tannins.($ 44.99)
( 93) Spicewood Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2024( TX). Sauvignon blanc is hard to find in Texas, but this is a gem. From their Spicewood Texas estate vineyards, it’ s 100 % sauvignon blanc; fermented and aged in stainless steel for six months to preserve the pure fruit notes. Lemon zest, green apple and hints of papaya. Balanced acidity and finished in a lighter style. Excellent quality.($ 31.99)
( 93) 1858 Napa 2021( CA). From the makers of Caymus, this offers concentrated flavors of blackberry, black cherry, smoke, toast and vanilla. Lavender aromatics lift the nose, while the palate is long and composed.($ 69.99)
( 93) Schnaer Family Pinot Noir 2023( OR). The 2023 Schnaer pinot noir opens with vibrant aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry and a hint of rose
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petal, layered with subtle notes of forest floor and baking spice. On the palate, it’ s light to medium bodied, with bright acidity and silky tannins, showcasing flavors of red currant, pomegranate and a touch of earthy minerality. The finish is elegant and smooth, with a whisper of oak and lingering spice.($ 22.99)
( 92) 1858 Paso 2023( CA). From the makers of Caymus. Juicy and expressive, this Paso Robles red is packed with jammy strawberry and cherry, accented by clove and cedar. Rich and round, it leans into opulence while maintaining balance through spicy undertones.($ 39.99)
( 92) The Paring Chardonnay 2023( CA). A fresh and vibrant expression, the 2023 Paring chardonnay opens with aromas of citrus blossom, lemon curd and subtle toasted oak. On the palate, it’ s medium-bodied with crisp acidity, showcasing flavors of green apple, ripe pear and a hint of vanilla. The finish is clean and mineral-driven, with just enough creaminess to round it out without feeling heavy.($ 24.99)
( 92) Newsom Vineyards Lavern’ s Merlot 2020( TX). Sourced from their estate vineyards, this is some of the oldest merlot vines in the state at 28 years old. Named as a tribute to their grandmother Lavern. 18 months in oak showcases the rich fruit. Try this wine with just a slight chill— delicious!($ 34.99)
( 92) Slate Theory“ The Orderly” 2024( TX). The Jones family continues to push the boundaries of the Texas wine
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industry. High plains fruit combines sangiovese( 65 %) with nebbiolo( 35 %). Lighter in style, crisp acidity and great color extraction. Perfect“ P” wine for porch, pool or patio sipping.($ 39.99)
( 92) Courtney Benham Pinot Noir 2022( CA). A complex and structured pinot noir with bright red cherry and strawberry at its core. Hints of cedar and smoke add depth, while medium tannins and well-integrated oak provide a firm backbone, creating a compelling mix of primary fruit and savory nuances.($ 24.99)
FOUR STARS
( 91) Harvester Zinfandel( CA) Hope Family Wines has crafted a rich and delectable example of Paso Robles zinfandel. Deep and luscious bramble fruits intertwined with earthy, savory notes showcase the best of the varietal. A zinfandel lover’ s dream, but fans of Paso cabs will enjoy the dark and broody fruit notes.($ 19.99)
( 91) Leia Vintners Cabernet 2023( CA). A classic cab with black cherry and cedar notes and well-integrated oak, lending structure without overpowering the fruit. Balanced and easy-drinking: a go-to for everyday enjoyment!($ 12.99)
( 91) Samuel Robert Pinot Noir 2023( OR). Bold and fruit-driven, this pinot noir bursts with ripe strawberry and bing cherry. Minimal oak influence allows the vibrant fruit to dominate. A pinot for cabernet lovers, offering intensity over subtlety.($ 17.99)
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