Vinography Unboxed: Highlights from the Week of November 2, 2025

Hello and welcome to this week’s edition of Vinography Unboxed, where I explore an assortment of wine samples that have arrived for tasting.

This week features a standout release from Spain’s esteemed sparkling wine producer, Raventós i Blanc. Their Manuel Raventós Negra bottling is a blend of Xarel-lo and Macabeo, aged on the lees for 70 months before disgorgement. This brut nature style offers a rich layer of flavors reminiscent of marzipan and butterscotch, thanks to its extended aging.

I also had the pleasure of tasting several new wines from Unti Vineyards in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley. Known for their Italian and Rhône-inspired varietals, I sampled their refreshing Vermentino and Grenache Blanc, a delightful rosé of Grenache, and a robust Montepulciano, all at surprisingly reasonable prices.

Another highlight was Stewart Johnson’s Viognier from Kendric Vineyards, which stands out for its brightness and zippiness, a refreshing choice on a sunny day.

Anaba Wines recently shared their Felix Hunter Vineyard Pinot Noir, showcasing luscious cherry notes and a seductive texture, promising even more complexity with a little age.

Lastly, I reviewed several bottles of New York Cabernet Franc, including Pellegrini Vineyards’ Vintners Pride bottling. Although still young, this wine has great potential for aging over the next decade.

Tasting Notes

• 2017 Raventos i Blanc “Manuel Raventos Negra Brut Nature” Cava Blend, Spain
  Pale gold with a hint of bronze, aromatic notes of marzipan and lemon curd. A velvety palate reveals flavors of citrus, dried herbs, and a pleasing patina from the long lees aging. Score: ~9. Cost: $100. Click to buy.

• 2024 Kendric Vineyards Viognier, Petaluma Gap, Marin County, California
  Bright gold with aromas of apricot and white flowers. Crisp and juicy flavors with excellent acidity. Score: ~9. Cost: $30. Click to buy.

• 2024 Unti Vineyards Vermentino, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
  Subtle gold, aromas of pear and yellow flowers, with a palate rich in pear flavors and herbs. Score: 8.5 – 9. Cost: $37. Click to buy.

• 2024 Unti Vineyards Grenache Blanc, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
  Light gold, notes of melon and apple, resulting in juicy and bright flavors. Score: 8.5 – 9. Cost: $35. Click to buy.

• 2024 Unti Vineyards Rosé of Grenache, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
  Pale salmon with aromas of watermelon. Bright acidity combines with flavors of orange peel and herbs. Score: ~9. Cost: $35. Click to buy.

• 2022 Anaba Wines “Felix Hunter Vineyard” Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, Sonoma County, California
  Dark purple, with aromas of blackcurrant and floral notes. Tannins are soft with good acidity. Score: ~9. Cost: $74.

• 2022 Pellegrini Vineyards “Vintners Pride” Cabernet Franc, North Fork of Long Island, New York
  Medium ruby, with earth and cherry aromas. The palate has a blend of dried herbs and fresh cherries. Score: ~8.5. Cost: $35.

• 2023 Unti Vineyards Montepulciano, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
  Medium garnet, aromas of cherry and cranberry, a smooth and balanced palate. Score: 8.5 – 9. Cost: $25. Click to buy.

This collection of wines provides an enticing glimpse into the varietals and talents of various winemakers. Combine these tasting notes with the right occasion, and you’ll surely find a bottle to enjoy.

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!