Vinography Unboxed: Highlights and Discoveries from the Week of June 29, 2025

Hello and welcome to this week’s exploration of wine samples that have recently arrived at my doorstep. In this edition of Vinography Unboxed, I’m excited to showcase a selection of excellent wines, predominantly hailing from Italy, with a couple of interesting California blends thrown into the mix.

The week opens with a nod to the Italian influence, featuring an array of wines that capture the essence of Italian winemaking. Among these are Dan Petroski’s refreshing offerings from Massican, a white-wine-centric venture based in Napa and now under the Gallo umbrella. Petroski’s latest releases of both Pinot Grigio and Gemina have been designated simply as California wines, granting him broader access to grapes from Gallo’s extensive vineyards. Yet, despite this change, both remain delightfully tasty, with the Gemina particularly standing out.

From Tuscany, I tasted a unique blend from the co-op winery Societá Usiglian del Vescovo, located near Florence. Their Chardonnay and Viognier blend showcases the complementary nature of the two varietals, honoring the Broom flower that inspired its name.

Next, a focus on well-priced Italian rosés introduces us to Kòmaros from Garafoli, a century-old producer in the Marche region, known for its enticing rosés that balance crispness and refreshing fruit flavors.

Masseria Li Veli from Puglia, a recognized leader in the region, impresses with three recommended rosés. Featured is the Torrerose, which is particularly striking as it showcases Primitivo, also known as Zinfandel, crafted into a beautiful and affordable rosé. Additionally, the Susumaniello rosé, crafted from a rare grape, and the new Sybar rosé of Negroamaro offer intriguing options for rosé lovers.

Finally, the tasting concludes with a lineup of elegant Barolos from GD Vajra and Luigi Baudana. The Ravera Barolo stood out for its sophisticated bouquet and balanced flavor profile, while both the Coste di Rose and Bricco delle Viole were exceptional as well. Baudana’s estate Barolo also proved remarkable with its bright structure and potential for aging.

Tasting Notes

2024 Massican Pinot Grigio, California
Palest gold, aromas of pears and lemon pith. Juicy pear and lemon with a stony finish. 13% alcohol. Score: 8.5 – 9. Cost: $30.

2024 Massican “Gemina” White Blend, California
Light blonde, scents of apples and grapefruit. Bright, juicy with lemon and dried herbs. 12.4% alcohol. Score: 9. Cost: $33.

2023 Usiglian Del Vescovo “Il Ginestraio” White Blend, Tuscany, Italy
Pale gold, notes of candied lemon and vanilla. Crisp lemon and peach, lingering vanilla finish. 13% alcohol. Score: 8.5. Cost: $20.

2024 Garofoli “Kòmaros” Rosé of Montepulciano, Marche, Italy
Light peachy pink with cherry aromas. Bright cherry flavors, faint chalky texture. 12% alcohol. Score: 8.5 – 9. Cost: $16.

2024 Masseria Li Veli “Torrerose” Rosé of Primitivo, Puglia, Italy
Pale pink, watermelon and floral scents. Bright, silky, mouthwatering watermelon. 12.5% alcohol. Score: 9 – 9.5. Cost: $22.

2024 Masseria Li Veli Rosé of Susumaniello, Puglia, Italy
Pale pink, floral and strawberry aromas. Salty with citrus notes, smooth texture. 13% alcohol. Score: 9. Cost: $26.

2024 Masseria Li Veli “Sybar” Rosé of Negroamaro, Puglia, Italy
Pale pink, hints of orange peel. Bright orange zest flavors with herbal nuance. 13% alcohol. Score: 8.5 – 9. Cost: $22.

2021 G.D. Vajra “Coste di Rose” Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
Medium ruby, aromas of strawberries and floral notes. Supple tannins, vibrant acidity. 14% alcohol. Score: 9 – 9.5. Cost: $85.

2021 G.D. Vajra “Bricco delle Viole” Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
Light to medium ruby, scents of strawberry jam and forest floor. Bright citrus with fine tannins. 14.5% alcohol. Score: 9.5. Cost: $105.

2021 G.D. Vajra “Ravera” Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
Light to medium ruby, scents of strawberry and cherries. Muscular tannins with fresh acidity. 14.5% alcohol. Score: 9.5. Cost: $105.

2021 Luigi Baudana “Baudana” Barolo, Piedmont, Italy
Light to medium ruby, smells of berries and earth. Bright flavors with excellent acidity. 14% alcohol. Score: 9 – 9.5. Cost: $105.

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!