Vinography Unboxed: Highlights from the Week of June 7, 2026

Hello and welcome to my weekly exploration of wine samples that arrive at my doorstep for tasting. This week’s installment of Vinography Unboxed features several notable bottles that I’ve had the pleasure of trying.

As summer temperatures began to rise here in the Bay Area, I found myself reaching for white wines more often. I started with the new release from Aperture Cellars in Sonoma, featuring a white labeled as “Proprietary White,” despite it being 100% Sauvignon Blanc. While the labeling is puzzling, the wine itself is enjoyable and suitable for those willing to pay a premium for high-quality options.

An alternative for fans of white wine comes from Massican, whose latest offerings continue to impress. The transformation of this brand under new ownership has led to an increase in organic sourcing and a reduced carbon footprint through lighter glass bottles made in California. My favorites include the Hyde Chardonnay, which rivals many prestigious California chardonnays, and the blends Gemina and Annia.

I also tried two wines from the emerging winemaker Elena Casadei, associated with the family behind Castello del Trebbio in Tuscany. Her Le Anfora de Casadei project showcases amphora-fermented wines from Italy, with a skin-fermented Ansonica from Tuscany and a Cannonau from Sardinia that exemplify what amphora aging can impart to wine.

Lastly, I tasted Bibiana Gonzalez Rave’s “The Goddess” Pinot Noir under her Cattleya label. Rave’s style leans towards richness, favoring ripe fruit and substantial French oak aging. While it might not appeal to all tastes, it offers a juicy experience balanced by coastal acidity.

Tasting Notes

2023 Aperture Cellars “Collage” Proprietary White Wine, Sonoma County, California

• Tasting Notes: Aromas of passionfruit, white flowers, lemon peel, and vanilla. Tasting reveals silky lemon peel and passionfruit flavors with bright acidity.
• Alcohol: 13.6%
• Cost: $125
• Score: 9

2025 Massican Sauvignon Blanc, California

• Tasting Notes: Kiwi and green apple aromas with flavors of green apple, kiwi, and a hint of lime pith.
• Alcohol: 12.5%
• Cost: $28
• Score: 8.5 – 9

2025 Massican Pinot Grigio, California

• Tasting Notes: Aromas of unripe pear and white flowers; flavors of unripe pears and citrus pith.
• Alcohol: 11.9%
• Cost: $27
• Score: 8.5

2025 Massican “Gemina” White Blend, California

• Tasting Notes: Wet chalkboard and lemon pith on the nose; salty flavors of lemon and lime peel.
• Alcohol: 12%
• Cost: $34
• Score: 8.5 – 9

2025 Massican “Annia” White Blend, California

• Tasting Notes: Aromas of yellow herbs and white flowers; Asian pear and star fruit flavors highlighted by chamomile.
• Alcohol: 11.8%
• Cost: $32
• Score: 8.5 – 9

2025 Massican “Hyde Vineyard” Chardonnay, Napa Valley, California

• Tasting Notes: Lemon peel and toasted nuts on the nose; flavors of lemon oil and cashew with a mouthwatering finish.
• Alcohol: 12.8%
• Cost: $50
• Score: 9 – 9.5

2022 Elena Casadei “Le Anfore – Ansonaco” Ansonica, Tuscany, Italy

• Tasting Notes: Pine resin and candied orange peel aromas; flavors of citrus peel and lemongrass.
• Alcohol: 13%
• Cost: $42
• Score: 8.5

2024 Cattleya “The Goddess” Pinot Noir, West Sonoma Coast, California

• Tasting Notes: Raspberries and cherries; sweet fruits balanced with good acidity.
• Alcohol: 14.2%
• Cost: $133
• Score: 8.5

2023 Elena Casadei “Le Anfore – Cannonau” Cannonau, Sardegna, Italy

• Tasting Notes: Strawberries and wet earth; flavors of strawberry and herbs with a dusty finish.
• Alcohol: 13%
• Cost: $27
• Score: 8.5

Have you tried any of these wines? Enjoy your tasting journey!

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!