Vinography Unboxed: Highlights from the Week of October 19, 2025

This week’s Vinography Unboxed brings us a selection of wines that are making a distinct mark.

Starting with a standout sparkling wine from Raventos i Blanc, the Can Sumoi “Muntanya.” This wine, a blend of Macabeo and Xarel-lo from a centuries-old mountaintop farm in Penedes, offers a fresh and bright expression, with minimal intervention and organic certification. It’s expected to be priced around $30 when available in the US.

Next are two wines from Monroy Wines in Sonoma County, crafted by winemaker Adolfo Hernandez. The Kick Ranch Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon are both solid offerings showcasing the region’s terroir.

From Kendric Vineyards, winemaker Stewart Johnson presents a lively Chardonnay and a floral, fruity Syrah. The latter holds promise for bottle age, enhancing its character.

In the world of Chenin Blanc, Pali Wine Co. shares an exceptional version from its estate vineyard, featuring stony, pear-and-grapefruit notes—ideal for Chenin lovers, priced at $50.

A new arrival is CJ McCullom’s McCullom Heritage 91, produced in conjunction with Adelsheim Vineyard. The wines show a competent style, with the Chardonnay outshining the Pinot Noir at this early stage. As McCullom’s vineyard in the Yamhill-Carlton district continues to develop, estate wines are anticipated.

Following the allure of Italy’s Cinque Terre, Stella di Lemmen presents their biodynamic wines from the inaccessible village of Lemmen. Their lineup includes three white wines and a compelling red blend of Grenache and Canaiolo. While all three whites are decent, one, with extended skin contact, stood out for its distinctiveness.

Tasting Notes

• 2024 Can Sumoi “Muntanya” White Blend, Spain: Light gold, medium bubbles; aromas of apples and chamomile. Flavors of unripe apples and a hint of chervil. Score: 8.5-9, Cost: ~$30.

• 2024 Monroy “Kick Ranch Vineyard” Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma County, California: Pale gold, notes of passionfruit and guava. Bright acidity, score: ~8.5, Cost: $34.

• 2024 Pali Wine Co. “Pali Vineyard” Chenin Blanc, Santa Barbara County, California: Pale gold, pear and grapefruit aromas. Bright citrus acidity, score: ~9, Cost: $50.

• 2022 Kendric Vineyards Chardonnay: Pale yellow-gold, candied lemon profile. Score: 8.5-9, Cost: $30.

• 2022 McCollum “Heritage 91” Chardonnay: Near colorless, lemon pith notes. Lean and crisp, score: 8.5-9, Cost: $50.

• 2022 Stella di Lemmen “Limen” White Blend, Italy: Medium to dark gold; highlights of apricot and dried apples. Score: ~8.5, Cost: $57.

• 2022 Stella di Lemmen “Astro” White Blend, Italy: Medium gold; thinks of peach and flowers. Score: ~8.5, Cost: $89.

• 2022 McCollum “Heritage 91” Pinot Noir: Light garnet; red fruit and herbs. Score: ~8.5, Cost: $55.

• 2023 Kendric Vineyards Syrah: Medium garnet; blackberries, bright acidity. Score: ~8.5-9, Cost: $32.

• 2022 Monroy “Kick Ranch Vineyard” Cabernet Sauvignon: Dark garnet; black cherry and earthy notes. Score: ~8.5, Cost: $80.

From sparkling wines to rich reds, this week’s collection showcases a dynamic range that any wine enthusiast would appreciate.

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!