Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1004126
70 / the tasting panel / july 2018 WINES San Simeon 2017 Pinot Noir, Monterey ($24) This is a new, progressive, silkier style for San Simeon, with a nose of black cherry liqueur. Round-bodied rose petals and rhubarb flow with savory notes of tobacco and black pepper lengthening the flavors at mid-palate. Black cherry and espresso beans fulfill their destiny on the finish. 93 RIBOLI FAMILY Eden Rift Vineyards 2016 Estate Pinot Noir, Cienega Valley, Monterey County ($48) Sourced from a remote mountain property 20 miles from Monterey Bay, these grapes are grown on marine-influenced, calcareous subsoil. Under vine since 1849, Eden Rift is certainly one of the oldest continually producing estate vineyards in California. The wine's gamey nose is sweetened by pomegranate and seasoned by basil, while the acidity is refined with a punctua- tion of red fruit at the start that goes darker and more plummy toward the finish. Chalky tannins add to its considerate mouthfeel. 93 Tenshen 2016 Red, Santa Barbara County ($25) Wine entrepreneur Alex Guarachi partnered with Central Coast winemaker Joey Tensley to create one of the top-selling wines in the U.S. A blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Petite Sirah, and Merlot comes together for a mouthwatering array of blackberry, lilac, and savory undertones. 92 GUARACHI WINE PARTNERS Diora 2015 La Petite Grace Pinot Noir, Monterey ($30) Sourced from the Santa Lucia Highlands (72%) and Diora's family-owned San Bernabe Vineyard (27%), this Pinot Noir sees a hint of Grenache and Petit Verdot shape its elegant fruit and texture profile to achieve richness and length. Mulled cherries make for a spicy and frisky aroma, and the palate excites: High-toned red fruit—strawberry and rhubarb— wash against cocoa-espresso nibs. This is a delicate, soulful wine. 93 DELICATO FAMILY WINES In each issue, The Tasting Panel's Publisher and Editorial Director Meridith May selects her favorite wines and spirits of the month. Check here for the latest arrivals in our offices, the hottest new brands on the market, and an occasional revisited classic. Publisher's Worthy of a smooch. French-style double bizou. Wildly infatuated. Seriously smitten. Head over heels in love. PICKS PHOTO: JEREMY BALL