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varietals grown in Texas , this is an artful blend of grenache and cinsault , with a touch of mourvèdre and ugni blanc for added complexity . Medium bodied , perfumy , floral , with hints of rose petals . Perfect poolside wine . ($ 26.99 )
( 94 ) J . Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ( CA ). Winemaker Brenden Wood utilizes primarily the estate fruit from Lohr ’ s own Shotwell and Beck vineyards as the foundation for this offering . Estate-grown petite verdot , malbec and cab franc is added for rich complexity . Sixteen months in French oak , sourced from five select coopers . Deep color , concentrated black fruit notes , balanced tannins , with a smooth lingering finish . ($ 34.99 )
( 94 ) Blicks Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ( New Zealand ). Presents vibrant aromas of citrus , especially lime and grapefruit , with subtle hints of tropical fruit like passionfruit and guava . On the palate it is crisp and refreshing , with zesty acidity that balances the fruit-forward flavors . There ’ s a light minerality , adding complexity , and the finish is clean , leaving a lingering note of green apple and a touch of herbaceousness . This sauvignon blanc is bright and well structured . ($ 16.99 )
( 93 ) Raventos blanc de Nit Cava 2019 ( Spain ). With the inclusion of a small percentage of garnacha , this pale pink bubble delivers a visual pleasure , as well as its silky refined texture . From the oldest continuous family-owned property in Europe established in 1497 . ($ 30 )
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( 93 ) Analemma Oak Ridge Pinot Noir 2019 ( OR ). From an organically farmed site at 1,400 feet at the base of Mount Adams . Piles of rose and cranberry on a silken texture , just delicious . ($ 40 )
( 93 ) Amity Vineyards Pinot Noir 2022 ( OR ). From one of Oregon ' s authentic pioneer wine producers , this pinot noir exemplifies what Oregon brings to the pinot noir world . Dark bright ruby in the glass , the nose and palate lean towards ripe dark fruit , with lovely accents of spice and floral hints . An excellent expression of Oregon fruit and winemaking . ($ 28 ) ( 93 ) Tenuta la Pergola Vino Rosso Birbet NV ( Italy ). A vibrant and aromatic sparkling red with a playful sweetness . The nose reveals ripe red berries — particularly raspberry — and strawberry , with hints of wildflowers . On the palate , it is light and fruity , offering juicy cherry and a touch of spice . Its slight effervescence enhances the refreshing character , leading to a smooth , semi-sweet finish . Delightfully easy to drink and charmingly lively . ($ 18.99 )
( 93 ) Rotie Southern Blend 2018 ( WA ). This Rhone-style wine is a mouthful of pepper , strawberry and black berry . Rose scents contrast the light smoke and meaty palate . Small production makes it special , as well . Brisket on the barbie for this one . ($ 60 )
( 92 ) Ruca Malen Kinien Malbec 2012 ( Argentina ). Elegant with a palate of ripe cherry , plum , violets , smoke and a hint of dark chocolate . The tannins are concentrated
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and sweet . This is definitely not your everyday malbec , and worth every penny . ($ 75 )
FOUR STARS
( 91 ) Cortonesi La Mannella Brunello di Montalcino 2019 ( Italy ). The Cortonesi family established themselves as wine producers in the 70 ’ s with 138 acres under cultivation . They produced their first brunello in 1990 , and sourcing for this wine comes from a select 19-acre plot . Young tannins , but very age-worthy . Hand-picked and sorted , this wine undergoes extended maceration in stainless steel before aging for 36 months in Slavonian oak . Rich dark fruit notes , hints of almond and spice . Great holiday wine for grilled pork , osso buco or prime rib . ($ 81.99 )
( 91 ) Cricova Brut NV ( Moldova ). Offers crisp , refreshing flavors with a bright acidity . The palate reveals green apple , citrus zest and subtle floral notes , complemented by a delicate minerality . Its fine bubbles add a lively texture , while the finish is clean and refreshing with a hint of toast . A balanced sparkling wine with elegance and fi- nesse . ($ 9.99 )
( 89 ) Paul Dolan Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ( CA ). With all the new kids on the block , it ’ s easy to overlook the pioneer families that established the industry . Under the Parducci umbrella established in 1932 is the Paul Dolan offerings , with their organic certification , along with being certified sustainable in farming practices . Softer acidity , with green apple , honeysuckle and lychee notes . ($ 29.99 )
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( 89 ) True Grit Petite Sirah 2022 ( CA ). Another Parducci offering , from Mendocino ’ s original winery established in 1932 . For those who enjoy a lighter style of red that still has some oomph and is food friendly . Black cherry , currant and bright plum notes . American and Hungarian oak brings out touches of vanilla and nutmeg . A strong commitment to the land as they have achieved CCOF certification along with certified sustainable farming practices . An organic jewel that complements holiday entertaining . ($ 29.99 )
( 88 ) McPherson Cellars Picpoul 2022 ( TX ). 100 % Piquepoul from the High Plains . Affectionately called the lip-stinger , this is another example of a French varietal that thrives in the Texas terroir . Very balanced acidity , great minerality and apricot / peach notes . Perfect “ P ” wine : porch , pool or patio wine . Great pairing with fresh Gulf Coast seafood . ($ 24.99 )
( 87 ) Alexander Valley Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2023 ( CA ). Classic Sonoma sauvignon blanc . Beautiful fruit-forward style . Clean , crisp , 100 % stainless steel . Balanced acidity , with citrus , pineapple and guava notes . Wonderful alternative to chardonnay for the holiday meal season . ($ 27.99 ) •
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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Winter 2024 • StateWays 25 |