Paul Hobbs George Menini Estate Pinot Noir is made from 100 percent Pinot Noir.
Brilliant ruby red in the glass, the 2022 vintage follows the color with matching aromas of wild mountain strawberry, raspberry, and cherry infused with hints of black tea. On the palate, this wine has the texture of thick satin, evolving seamlessly with subtle energy and pleasant tension. Elegant, fine-grained tannins run through a lingering, juicy finish.
Review:
Wow, a super well-structured, vital wine with oodles of generous black fruit flavors on a firm frame that will help it age well and improve with time. Black cherries, blackberries, blueberries, forest floor nuances and a slight smoky, stemmy character from using mostly Calera-clone grapes, with 15% whole clusters and 30% new French oak. Great interplay between layered fruit and a fresh, crunchy texture. Drinkable now, but best from 2030.
-James Suckling 98 Points & #54 in Top 100
Marie Baron Pouilly Fume is made from 100 percent Sauvignon Blanc.
Pouilly-Fumé is one of the Loire Valley's most prestigious white wine appellations, located on the right bank of the Loire River across from Sancerre. The 'Fumé' in the name refers to the smoky, flinty character imparted by the Kimmeridgian clay and silex (flint) soils.
This wine displays a brilliant pale gold color with intense aromas of citrus, white peach, and the signature gunflint smokiness. On the palate, it is elegant and focused with mineral-driven acidity, flavors of green apple and grapefruit, and a long, precise finish.
Pairs beautifully with shellfish, sushi, grilled fish, or fresh goat cheese like Crottin de Chavignol.