Vinography Unboxed: Your Wine Digest for the Week of April 6, 2025

Welcome to this week’s edition of Vinography Unboxed, where I delve into the array of wine samples received for tasting. This week, a notable highlight is the relaunch of a significant vineyard project previously known as Aeris, now called Centennial Mountain Vineyard, managed by the team at Rhys Vineyards. This site, which boasts California’s first plantings of Carricante, along with Nerello Mascalese and Nebbiolo, is situated atop the volcanic soils near Lake Sonoma. After sampling all three varietals, I found the Carricante to be particularly impressive.

Continuing with my explorations, I also tasted several wines from Ridge Vineyards, including their 2023 Chardonnay, a well-balanced blend of richness and acidity. Their portfolio includes a delicious Paso Robles Zinfandel and a refined Geyserville field blend, both showcasing bright fruit flavors and aging potential. The 2022 Monte Bello Cabernet Sauvignon is a stand-out, promising rewarding complexities as it matures.

In addition, I revisited Darling Wines and found two new releases that are worth noting: a light skin-contact Pinot Gris brimming with berry and stone fruit flavors, and a vibrant Deodora Vineyard Pinot Noir, featuring a delightful balance of savory elements and fruit.

I also sampled a robust Merlot from La Jota Vineyard Co., grown in Napa’s Howell Mountain. Despite my admiration for the wine, I couldn’t help but voice disapproval over their use of heavy bottles that counter eco-friendly practices.

The week closed with an exploration of two Cabernets from Laurel Glen Vineyard in Sonoma County. Both the early-released Counterpoint and the estate Cabernet are excellent, with the 2021 vintage leaving me eager to see how the estate develops over the coming years.

Tasting Notes

• 2021 Centennial Mountain Carricante: Light gold; aromas of lemon pith and sea air; flavors of candied lemon peel and grapefruit; excellent acidity. Score: 9. Cost: $49. buy here

• 2023 Ridge Vineyards “Estate” Chardonnay: Light gold; notes of lemon curd and pineapple; balanced rich and silky texture. Score: 8.5-9. Cost: $75. buy here

• 2024 Darling Wines “La Cruz Vineyard” Pinot Gris: Pale peach; aromas of apricot; mixes peach and orange flavors with floral notes. Score: 9. Cost: $40. buy here

• 2023 Ridge Vineyards “Geyserville” Red Blend: Dark garnet; flavors of blackberry and blueberry; excellent acidity and complexity. Score: 9.5. Cost: $60. buy here

• 2022 Ridge Vineyards “Monte Bello” Cabernet Sauvignon: Dark garnet; core of black cherry and plum; fine tannins; great aging potential. Score: 9.5. Cost: $388. buy here

For anyone following the latest trends or seeking new wine experiences, this week’s discoveries offer insights into the evolving landscape of winemaking across California.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!