Vinography Unboxed: Highlights from the Week of March 15, 2026

Hello and welcome to this week’s review of notable wine samples that have arrived for tasting. This edition features several outstanding bottles curated from various wineries.

Highlighted Wines

1. Ottavino: The wines from Shalini Sekhar’s brand include a vibrant Chardonnay from the Anderson Valley and a captivating red St. Laurent, the latter following a previous review of her rosé made from the same variety. Both exhibit significant character and taste.

2. Weatherborne: Originally founded in Santa Barbara, this winery has moved to Anderson Valley, Mendocino, where they produce various wines. This week, I sampled their Chenin Blanc, which is quite new to the region, alongside a flavorful Pinot Noir. However, my favorite was the Grenache—its sweet fruitiness complemented by a stony, crunchy profile was delightful.

3. SCAIA Wines: Produced by Tenuta Sant’Antonio in Italy’s Veneto region, these wines are remarkable for their quality at under $15. The white, a blend of Garganega and Chardonnay, and the rosato, made from Rondinella, both stand out for their refreshing summer appeal.

4. Troon Vineyard: From Oregon’s Applegate Valley came three noteworthy wines. The new Mourvèdre rosé shines with floral brightness, while one Mourvèdre was fermented in amphora, offering a rustic vibe, and the other presents a more classical style with lovely floral and fruity characteristics.

Tasting Notes

• 2024 Ottavino “Ferrington Vineyard” Chardonnay
  Pale gold in color, this Chardonnay bursts with lemon zest, yuzu, and a hint of bee pollen. The taste is vibrant with flavors of pink grapefruit and bright acidity, concluding with a subtle hint of vanilla. Alcohol: 13%. Score: 9. Cost: $60.

• 2023 Weatherborne Chenin Blanc
  This pale gold wine offers aromas of pears and white flowers, followed by pear and pastry cream flavors with a stony finish. Alcohol: 12.6%. Score: 8.5. Cost: $30.

• 2024 Tenuta Sant’Antonio “SCAIA” Bianco
  With a pale gold hue, it features notes of ripe apples and lime zest. Ripe apple and pear flavors dominate, though it lacks a bit of zest. Alcohol: 12.5%. Score: 8.5. Cost: $12.

• 2025 Tenuta Sant’Antonio “SCAIA” Rosato
  Pale peach in color, it has aromas of orange peel and strawberries. Flavor-wise, it offers silky and slightly sweet layers of fruit, with a lingering finish. Alcohol: 12%. Score: 8.5. Cost: $15.

• 2024 Troon Vineyard Rosé of Mourvèdre
  This light gold wine has aromas of citrus and raspberries, presenting crisp orange and peach flavors with excellent acidity. Alcohol: 11.7%. Score: 9. Cost: $35.

• 2023 Weatherborne “Filigreen Farm” Pinot Noir
  Medium garnet in color, it features aromas of cherry and herbs with sweet cherry flavors and a gentle tannic texture. Alcohol: 13.5%. Score: 8.5. Cost: $60.

• 2024 Ottavino “Ricci Vineyard” St. Laurent
  Light to medium garnet with a nose of berries and dried herbs. The mouthfeel combines cherries and boysenberries with good acidity. Alcohol: 11.9%. Score: Between 8.5 and 9. Cost: $35.

• 2022 Weatherborne Grenache
  Light ruby, this wine has strawberry jam aromas with herb notes. Flavors include strawberries and stone, balanced by crunchy acidity. Alcohol: 13.7%. Score: Between 8.5 and 9. Cost: $37.

• 2024 Troon Vineyard Mourvèdre
  Medium ruby, offering bright blueberry and floral notes, coated with soft tannins. Alcohol: 12%. Score: 9. Cost: $43.

• 2024 Troon Vineyard “Amphora” Mourvèdre
  With aromas of blueberries and herbs, this wine has a complex mouthfeel of earthy flavors and lingering tannins. Alcohol: 12.9%. Score: 8.5. Cost: $55.

These selections showcase a blend of vibrant flavors and innovative winemaking styles, illustrating the diversity and richness of contemporary wine offerings.

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!