Vinography Unboxed: Highlights from the Week of October 12, 2025

Hello and welcome to this week’s roundup of noteworthy wine samples. In this installment of Vinography Unboxed, we delve into the latest offerings that have recently been sent for tasting.

Far Niente has revamped its branding and now markets itself as The House of Far Niente, aligning its various brands under this luxury umbrella. This change prompted them to share samples with me for a deeper appreciation of their portfolio. Among the wines received, the Far Niente Chardonnay stood out as being more refined compared to the Post & Beam version, while the Nickel & Nickel Cabernet was its usual polished self. The En Route Pinot Noirs, while well-crafted, lean towards a richer profile that may not appeal to everyone’s taste. Also notable was their impressive Rutherford Cabernet from Bella Union, though its heavy packaging raised concerns regarding sustainability.

Troon Vineyard provided an approachable lineup of wines that maintain excellent value. Their white was distinctive, but the rosé was a delightful choice for casual sipping, and the red exhibited a crunchy, complex character for under $30.

From the esteemed estate of Tenuta San Leonardo, located in Italy’s Trentino Alto-Adige, I sampled their flagship wine, the San Leonardo, alongside its “second” wine, Terre di San Leonardo. Both wines, built on a Bordeaux blend, showcased exceptional qualities, though I found both equally enjoyable despite the significant price difference.

Lastly, I received a preview of the new Dôi Dá project in Napa. Their Cabernet Sauvignon, made from purchased fruit while awaiting their own vineyard’s yield, is made with minimal oak influence and offers a graceful profile. Its current drinkability bodes well for future aging potential.

Tasting Notes

2023 Post & Beam Chardonnay, Carneros, Napa, California

• Score: 8.5
• Cost: $37
• Notes: Classic California profile with lemon curd and a touch of butterscotch.

2023 Far Niente Chardonnay, Napa Valley, Napa, California

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $63
• Notes: Seamless texture with lemon curd and well-integrated oak.

2024 Troon Vineyard “Druid’s White” White Blend, Southern Oregon

• Score: 8.5
• Cost: $30
• Notes: Tangy with apple and pear flavors and bright acidity.

2024 Troon Vineyard “Druid’s Pink” Rosé, Southern Oregon

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $30
• Notes: Crisp and juicy, with excellent salinity.

2023 En Route “Les Pommiers” Pinot Noir, Sonoma, California

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $49
• Notes: Rich cherry and raspberry flavors with good acidity.

2023 Darling Wines “Azaya Vineyard” Pinot Noir, Marin, California

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $65
• Notes: Balanced with sour cherry and redcurrant flavors.

2024 Troon Vineyard “Druid’s Red” Red Blend, Southern Oregon

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $30
• Notes: Bright boysenberry and blueberry flavors with excellent acidity.

2020 San Leonardo “San Leonardo” Red Blend, Trentino Alto-Adige, Italy

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $113
• Notes: Supple with black cherry and herbal nuances.

2021 San Leonardo “Terre di San Leonardo” Red Blend, Trentino Alto-Adige, Italy

• Score: 8.5 – 9
• Cost: $25
• Notes: Juicy and dark with complexity from concrete aging.

2023 Nickel & Nickel “John C. Sullenger Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, California

• Score: 9 – 9.5
• Cost: $120
• Notes: Rich black cherry and herbal flavors wrapped in velvety tannins.

2023 Bella Union Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa, California

• Score: 9
• Cost: $220
• Notes: Ripe and bold with balance.

2023 Dôi Dá Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Napa, California

• Score: 9.5
• Cost: $125
• Notes: Bright black cherry with well-integrated oak, promising for cellaring.

Each of these wines brings its own character and reflects the dedication of the producers. Enjoy exploring the diverse expressions of flavor among these selections!

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!