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Red Zinfandel Wines
Buehler 2014 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 18.99
A perennial best buy in Napa Valley Zinfandel!
Beuhler 2014 Napa Valley Zinfandel is a mix of their estate vineyards and grapes from other select Napa Valley high quality, low-yielding vineyards. Dry-farmed for over 23 years, the 4.5 acre estate block consists of mature thirty-eight year old vines which typically give around 2.5 tons/acre of beautiful hillside Zinfandel fruit. Interspersed among the head-trained vines are a handful of Petite Sirah vines representing perhaps 5% of the total vines in this block. A traditional field companion to Zinfandel in pre-prohibition California vineyards, Petite Sirah contributes pepper, color, and tannin structure to the wine.
Klinker Brick 2014 Old Vines Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 19.00
One of the best value boutique Zinfandels in California! An intense, fruit-filled wine you expect to cost at least twice as much. If you have yet to try a Zin from Lodi, this is the one!
The Klinker Brick 2014 Old Vines Zinfandel is produced from an amalgam of 14 different vineyard blocks, ranging in age from 35 to 110 years old. This vintage saw lower yields than 2005, producing a wine that is both complex and bold. Showing typical Klinker Brick cherry/berry/plum fruit components with aromatic spices on the nose, this wine is incredibly well balanced with a silky smooth texture and a long lingering finish. One of their best!
Five Vintners 2013 Zinfandel, California
$ 22.00
Rockpile fruit help make Five Vintners of the best new California Zinfandels available. Grab this great small-produciton Zin while it lasts - Only 940 cases produced!
Five Vintner's Krisi Raymond of Napa's Raymond Family has struck out on her own with this fantastic new lablel. This Zinfandel blends some of the best fruit from Napa Valley and Sonoma. 42% comes from the Nichelini Vineyards in the Pope-Chiles area of Napa, 30% from Mauritson Vineyards in Dry Creek and 20% from their Rockpile Vineyard. 8% of the blend is made up of Syrah from Truchard Vineyards in Carneros. One of our best under $25 Zinfandel discoveries!
Girard 2015 Old Vines Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 24.00
A fantastic value in Old Vines Napa Valley Zin! The Girard 2015 Old Vines Zinfandel Napa Valley is a blend of 76% Zinfandel and 24% Petite Sirah. Sourcecd from mountain vineyards that provide a rich flavor extraction, fruit-forward palate and wonderful layers of complexity from multiple soil types. One of our favorite Napa Zins under $30.
90 Points Wine Spectator: "Plump and briary, with appealing black cherry and spice aromas and ripe, supple raspberry and licorice flavors. Drink now through 2024."
Beran 2012 Zinfandel, California
$ 24.99
Inaugural vintage from Joe Wagner, youngest son of Chuck Wagner, who founded Caymus Vineyards with his parents, Charlie and Lorna Wagner.
Oakville Winery 2011 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 24.99
Know for their Cabernet, Oakville Winery's Zinfandel is a real sleeper. A delicious Napa Valley Zinfandel we highly recommend from the winery that makes Ghost Block.
The Oakville Winery 2011 Zinfandel has developed a powerful structure that is sweet on the front palate and spicy on the back. Black currants, wild huckleberries, cherries and a melting essence of dark chocolate emerge from this full-bodied wine that finishes with a note of vanilla and cracked pepper. This wine makes a great companion to almost any meal.
Bedrock 2017 Old Vines Zinfandel, Sonoma
$ 24.99
An amazing value
Bedrock Winery is producing some of the most exciting new releases we've tasted in California and the Bedrock 2017 Old Vines Zinfandel is a fantastic wine and unbeatable value.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Old-school meets new in this Zinfandel, with just enough polish and plumpness to match the briary rusticity. Offers expressive black cherry, smoky anise and white pepper flavors. Drink now through 2024"
A blend of legendary Sonoma County vineyards dating back to the 1880s, Morgon-Peterson's Old Vines zin makes a strong case for the best overall Zinfandel available today. It delivers the exuberance we expect of this generous grape, but transcends any superficial tendencies with a layer or three of earth, tannin, baking spices, and tip-top French oak treatment. A Zin that benefits from a few years in the cellar to develop gravitas and wow factor, but truly drinks great right out of the gates. Bedrock Zinfandels are the best in the business (the single vineyard bottlings are now uber-allocated). This is your chance to drink Bedrock Zin all the time. Delicious but limited - hurry.
Seghesio 2016 Sonoma County Zinfandel
$ 25.99
93 Points WS
Always one of the favorite California Zins we carry.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Plump and luscious, this is jam-packed with fruit. Lively blackberry, pepper and other spice box aromas lead to ripe and rich flavors of black raspberry, caramel and licorice. There are more complex Zinfandels, but few that are more enjoyable to drink. Drink now through 2022."
Wine Enthusiast: "You could use this as a teaching tool for classic Sonoma County Zinfandel. It's full-bodied, dry and spicy, with briary flavors of wild berries, mocha, tobacco, leather and exotic spices. More importantly, it's absolutely delicious. The grapes come from Seghesio's best vineyards in the Alexander and Dry Creek valleys. An astonishing value."
Ottimino 2014 Ottimino Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 26.99
One of our favorite small-production California Zins. Highly recommended.
The Ottimino Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley has intense aromas of blueberry, orange rind, and ripe raspberry aromas are laced with hints of white pepper bolstered by well-integrated notes of French oak. The palate entry has ample fruit, with bramble and ripe raspberry at its core. Balanced tannins support a great depth and concentration of flavor, making this Zinfandel an excellent wine to pair with your favorite dishes.
Prisoner Wine Co. 2017 "Saldo" Zinfandel, California
$ 27.99
Fantastic new Zinfandel from the The Prisoner Wine Co! Extremely limited new release - get your allocation before it sells out.
Saldo is a delicious blend of Zinfandel & Petite Sirah. Through the success of the Prisoner label, the winery has gained access to some of the best Zinfandel vineyards in Nothern California and made a high quality Zinfandel that doesn't fit the constraints of a single appelation. The result? SALDO.
93 Points Brix26: "The Saldo has a dark ruby color and intense aromas of dark cherry, cocoa powder and baking spice. The entry is rich and full, and leads into a broad mid palate with concentration and density, backed by lively acidity. The texture is soft and the tannins are polished. The finish is long with persistent notes of chocolate, berry and vanilla bean."
Ridge 2015 Three Valleys Zinfandel, Sonoma
$ 29.99
Another fantastic Three Valleys from Ridge and one of the best Zinfandel values anywhere!
"Three Valleys" is the proprietary name for the only Ridge wine blended from multiple vineyard sites. They select softer, more accessible lots from their single vineyards and, taking the role of winemaker literally, create a character they find most appealing. Younger vines from Lytton Estate provided most of the fruit; older vines on five small Alexander Valley vineyards and one Russian River vineyard make up the rest. This sixth vintage of Three Valleys contains the highest percentage of zinfandel to date. Sensuous structure and rich fruit give the wine immediate appeal; it will bemost enjoyable over the next five years.
91 Points Wine Enthusiast "Editor's Choice: "This bottling defines such a style. It's dry and lithe in the mouth yet gently tannic, with suggestions of berry jam, bacon, grilled mushrooms and hints of balsamic and soy sauce."
80% ZINFANDEL, 10% PETITE SIRAH, 5% CARIGNANE, 5% GRENACHE
Green & Red 2014 Tip Top Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 33.99
This great under the radar Red Zinfandel from Napa Valley is a beauty. Highly recommended.
Green & Red Vineyard, named for its red iron soils veined with green serpentine, is located in the steep hills on the east side of Napa Valley. The planting was started in 1972 on ground originally in vineyards in the 1890's. The vineyards are a small percentage of the 200-acre property, which ranges in elevation from 900 to 2,000 feet.The Tip Top Vineyard is located at 1700 ft in elevation and faces northeast. The soils are red and rocky. Red raspberry/currant/blackberry/laurel lead to a lively finish laced with ground black pepper.
Brix26 Inside Scoop: Green & Red Zinfandel has been on the wine list at Berkeley's famous Chez Panisse Restaurant since the inaugural vintage.
Rombauer 2016 Zinfandel, California
$ 33.99
New Release of Rombauer's coveted Zinfandel!
The Rombauer Vineyards 2016 Zinfandel captures the essence of California Zinfandel with this ripe, fruit driven wine. It is filled with aromas of boysenberries, raspberries and wild berries. The wine is loaded with flavors of ripe, zesty wild berry and blackberry jam that picks up spicy, peppery notes. It finishes with a fantastic burst of fruit and concentrated berry flavors. A blend of Zinfandels from Rombauer's vineyards: 59% Amador, 24% Napa, 11% Lake, 6% El Dorado.
Ghost Block 2016 Pelissa Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 34.99
The inaugural release of Ghost Block 2016 Zinfandel now available!
The Pelissa vineyard is located on Oakville Crossroads directly behind our family winery, creating this Estate grown & produced Zinfandel. With Napa Valley elegance, this single vineyard Zinfandel offers layer s of complex aromas and flavors. Bursting with bright, dark fruits and hints of vanilla, black pepper, and violet undertones. This wine is balanced with intricate oak essences. A smooth, luscious, and velvet finish that coats your palate will keep you sipping for more.
Hendry 2015 'Block 7 & 22' Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 34.99
96 Points! Limited new release
Fantastic new Zinfandel from Hendry! The Hendry family has been farming in Napa since 1939. Their Block 7 and Block 22 were planted in 1975 and 1995 respectively.
96 Points Wines & Spirits: "The scent of this wine is worth the price of admission, a combination of sage, sun and wet rock, of forest pines and dark red fruit. It reminded Wolfgang Weber, one of our panelists, of hiking in the North Coast, "in the morning, when the sun burns off the dew and picks up the scents of plant resins." The fragrance may round the wine in the Napa Valley hills, but the texture is pure benchland, about as silky as a wine can be...a deliciously plump Zinfandel, the kind of dynamic red wine that proves Napa Valley's greatness."
Wine Enthusiast: "High alcohol gives this wine peppery heat and a mouthwatering savoriness. The flavors, though, are all Zinfandel, suggesting ripe wild blackberries, currants and dark chocolate. It will pair well with smoky, sweetly-sauced barbecued ribs and chicken."
Ridge 2017 Paso Robles Zinfandel
$ 34.99
Fantastic new Ridge Zinfandel from the Dusi Vineyard in Paso Robles.
Benito Dusi Ranch is the only vineyard on the Central Coast that Ridge sources grapes from, and they've been making wines from the Zin vines there since 1967. The wines from this site are fruit-filled but balanced, with bright raspberry fruit and toasted coconut flavors.
Kuleto Estate 2010 Estate Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 35.00
Fantastic new Zinfandel release from Kuleto Estate's hillside vineyard overlooking Napa Valley.
92 Points Robert Parker: " This superb Zinfandel, which includes 10% Sangiovese in the blend, boasts a deep ruby/purple color, abundant fruit, a full-bodied, powerful palate, and loads of new saddle leather, black cherry, strawberry, herb, and earth characteristics. It is a spicy, complex, intense, opulent effort to consume over the next 4-5 years."
Limerick Lane 2013 Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 35.99
Limerick Lane is back with fantastic new Zinfandels. Hurry while these small-production gems are still available.
92 Points Robert Parker: "The 2013 Zinfandel from the Russian River is another sexy wine, and one of their largest production cuvées of just under 2,000 cases. It finished at 14.6% alcohol and shows plenty of classic Mediterranean roasted herbs, pepper, spice and full-bodied blackberry and cherry fruit. It’s a classic Zinfandel, very pure, impressively crafted and should drink nicely for up to a decade."
From their 30-acre estate near Healdsburg in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley, Limerick Lane produces Zinfandel with a full sense of their Sonoma heritage. The wines convey an honest finesse and a pristine sense of the unique terroir of the Russian River Valley. Zinfandel fanatics are down-to-earth in their passion for the grape, and Limerick Lane is a treasured secret among the faithful for its value and expression. Rustic, gutsy Zinfandel delicately balanced with clarity of fruit and acid. Minimal use of oak preserves the freshness and highlights the full chewy structure.
Frank Family 2013 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 36.00
Just released! Frank Family Zinfandel always sells out in a matter of months so order now to try one of our favorite Napa Valley Zins!
Frank Family Vineyard's Napa Valley Zinfandel is dense, dark scarlet to the eye; the nose is jam-packed with dazzling blackberries, plums, and black cherries touched with the essence of white pepper spice. The palate is rich and concentrated with mouth filling ripe fruit flavors interwoven with velvety tannins followed by a long, comforting finish.
Tofanelli Vineyards 2012 Estate Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 36.00
The Tofanelli Vineyard is a well-known source of some of California's finest Zindandels from Turley Wine Cellars, Neyers, and The Prisoner. Vineyard owner Vince Tofanelli turns out a fantastic Zin of his own - get it while it lasts!
previous vintage 91 Points Robert Parker: "The Tofanelli Zinfandel emerges from the glass with sweet spices, plums, leather and spices. All the elements come together beautifully in this delineated, textured and totally impeccable wine. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2018...Tofanelli is one of California’s historic wineries, with a rich lineage that goes back to 1929. These Zinfandels and Charbonos are long on personality and character."
Old Ghost 2015 Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 37.00
Old Ghost represents the very best lots of Old Vine Zinfandel that Klinker-Brick Winery produces. This small-production Zin sells out quickly soon after each release. Try it while its still available!
For the past three vintages, Old Ghost has come from 90 plus-year-old vineyard blocks that typically produce tiny yields that are less than one ton per acre. Very keenly defined berry-like fruit gives great direction to the rich, sweetly oaked aromas of this tantalizing Zinfandel, and, even if it is biased to the ripeness of its provenance on the palate, it has admirable volume and depth. A streak of firming tannins provides a nice bit of grip and ensures several years of growth.
Seghesio 2011 Cortina Vineyard Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley
$ 37.99
Limited Dry Creek Zinfandel release from Seghesio. Get the new vintage before the ratings come out!
previous vintage 94 Points Wine Spectator: "Dark and intense, yet well-polished, with floral blackberry and pepper aromas and concentrated black cherry, bitter chocolate and black olive flavors that finish with muscular but ripe tannins. Needs time. Best from 2015 through 2022."
Bedrock 2016 Schmiedt Rd. Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 37.99
New release!
Bedrock Winery is producing some of the most exciting new releases we've tasted in California and the Bedrock 2016 Schmiedt Road Zinfandel is a great new release.
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Rich and supple, this is an explosion of pure, decadent fruit. Floral huckleberry and Chinese five-spice powder aromas open to layered blackberry, dark chocolate and licorice flavors that linger. Drink now through 2026."
Robert Parker: "The Old Vines Zinfandel is an outstanding, full-throttle wine with a Mediterranean personality, with loads of Provençal herbs, briary black raspberry and black cherry fruits, dusty loaminess, a lush, full-bodied mouthfeel and dark ruby/purple-tinged color. Drink it over the next 3-4 years."
A blend of legendary Sonoma County vineyards dating back to the 1880s, Morgon-Peterson's old vines zin makes a strong case for the best overall Zinfandel available today. It delivers the exuberance we expect of this generous grape, but transcends any superficial tendencies with a layer or three of earth, tannin, baking spices, and tip-top French oak treatment. A Zin that benefits from a few years in the cellar to develop gravitas and wow factor, but truly drinks great right out of the gates. Bedrock Zinfandels are the best in the business (the single vineyard bottlings are now uber-allocated). This is your chance to drink Bedrock Zin all the time. Delicious but limited - hurry.
Carlisle 2017 Sonoma County Zinfandel
$ 38.00
Fantastic new Zin release from Carlisle, one of our favorite small producers!
Robert Parker: "...The personality-filled Michael Officer and his beloved Carlisle Winery & Vineyards continues to turn out a gorgeous portfolio of exuberant, lovingly made, stunningly fruity and outright beautiful wines from historic vineyards and iconic grapes that, until the last generation or so, had tended to be forgotten in the early days of California winedom, after the repeal of Prohibition."
Brown Estate 2016 Chaos Theory Napa Valley
$ 39.99
One of our favorite small production Zinfandel producers, Brown Estate makes a fantastic red blend called ChaosTheory, a delicious mix of 50% Merlot, 25% Petite Sirah, 25% Zinfandel blend that will delight all red wine fans. Limited.
The 2016 Brown Estate Chaos Theory red has dense crimson color that leads to a fragrant nose of exotic Asian apple blossom, crushed rose petals, and cloves. This wine delivers a mouthful of soft, silky texture that gives way to ripe, forward fruit balanced with layers of complexity. Cascading flavors of blackberries, black cherries, cappuccino, and tobacco lead to herbaceous earthiness with undertones of big game and fresh sage and rosemary. This is a dark, deep, brooding and seductive wine that glides over your palate toward a long, elegant finish. The perfect wine to pair with boldly seasoned grilled meats and garlicky potatoes with coarse ground mustard, or a comforting beef pot pie.
Elyse 2013 Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 39.99
Awesome new release from one of our favorite small Napa Zin producers! If you aren't familiar with the reds from Elyse try them now as they always sell out fast. Old-vine Zin from the famed Morisoli Vineyard in the heart of the Rutherford Bench.
The Elyse Morisoli Vineyard Zinfandel Napa Valley is deep purplish ruby in color and reveals intense aromas of sweet briary fruit, dried herbs and creme de cassis. Intoxicating aromas are followed by a cornucopia of flavors including black raspberries, wild cherries, black currants and orange zest,
Seghesio 2013 Old Vines Zinfandel, Sonoma County
$ 39.99
Seghesio consistently makes some of the best buys in California Zinfandel year in and year out.
92 Points Wine Spectator "Highly Recommended": "A winning combination of rustic richness and sleek balance. Aromas of briary wild berry and spicy mocha lead to dense, layered flavors of black cherry, grilled anise and pepper."
Limerick Lane 2015 Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 39.99
94 Points Parker
Limerick Lane is back with a fantastic new Zinfandel. Limited.
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "The Zinfandel Estate is primarily Zinfandel, but there are other grapes in this mixed black field blend, including Peloursin, Négrette, Syrah, Petite Sirah and Carignan. This is a sensational Zinfandel, with an explosive nose of pepper, raw meat, blackberry, black raspberry and cherry. Deep, chewy and dense, it finishes at 14.8% natural alcohol. The lusty, exuberant style of this wine makes it irresistible already, and it should continue to drink well for another 5-8 years."
From their 30-acre estate near Healdsburg in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley, Limerick Lane produces Zinfandel with a full sense of their Sonoma heritage. The wines convey an honest finesse and a pristine sense of the unique terroir of the Russian River Valley. Zinfandel fanatics are down-to-earth in their passion for the grape, and Limerick Lane is a treasured secret among the faithful for its value and expression. Rustic, gutsy Zinfandel delicately balanced with clarity of fruit and acid. Minimal use of oak preserves the freshness and highlights the full chewy structure.
Ridge 2017 Geyserville Red, Sonoma County
$ 39.99
The most ageworthy of all Ridge zinfandels, the Ridge Geyserville can be magnificent when young. From legendary 130 year old vines!
95 Points Rober Parker: "A first look at the 2017 Geyserville Proprietary Red Wine revealed immense promise. Despite having been in barrel for a mere six months, it's already offering up complex aromas of raspberries, blackberries and exotic spice. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, pure and succulent, with superb concentration, a lovely line of ripe acidity and a chalky, fine-grained finish. The wine attained 14.7% alcohol, and Baugher believes it will be one of the best renditions of Geyserville in a decade."
Located on the western edge of Sonoma's Alexander Valley, Geyserville was Ridge's first source of red wine grapes, other than Monte Bello Ridge. The combination of Geyserville's climate, gravelly soils, and varietal mix (zinfandel, carignane, petite sirah, alicante, mataro, etc.) imparts elegance and definition not usually associated with zinfandel. It's hard to describe a "typical" Geyserville. Each vintage is unique, distinct, extraordinary. Yet they do have elements in common, including the blackest of blackberry fruit, peppery spice, tar, cedar. The term "layered" was invented for Geyserville. And the wines change, re-inventing themselves in bottle, developing more nuance and complexity as years pass. The '73 still shines.
Limerick Lane 2016 Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 39.99
95 Points - new release
Limerick Lane is back with a fantastic new Zinfandel. Limited.
95 Point Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2016 Zinfandel Russian River Estate is another gorgeous wine from this estate. Plums, sandalwood, Asian spices, and a hint of cigar all flow to a seamless, elegant Zinfandel that shows the class and quality of this vintage. With medium to full-bodied richness and building, fine tannin, it has complexity, texture, and length. Bravo!"
95 Points Antonio Galloni: "The 2016 Estate Zinfandel shows the more powerful, muscular side of the estate. Rich, pliant and creamy, the Estate hits all the right notes. Bright red cherry, plum, rose petal, mint and licorice build into the succulent, racy finish."
From their 30-acre estate near Healdsburg in the northeast corner of the Russian River Valley, Limerick Lane produces Zinfandel with a full sense of their Sonoma heritage. The wines convey an honest finesse and a pristine sense of the unique terroir of the Russian River Valley. Zinfandel fanatics are down-to-earth in their passion for the grape, and Limerick Lane is a treasured secret among the faithful for its value and expression. Rustic, gutsy Zinfandel delicately balanced with clarity of fruit and acid. Minimal use of oak preserves the freshness and highlights the full chewy structure.
Carlisle 2017 "Piner-Olivet Ranches" Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 42.00
96 Points
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
96 Points Wine Enthusiast: "This is a first time blending together of three still-also-separate vineyard-designates (Papera, Carlisle, Montafi) into one cohesive harmonious wine. Hugely aromatic in fresh strawberry, cherry cola and tart fresh slices of citrus, it’s a lovely cuveé of tremendous balance and beauty."
Robert Parker: "...A great success story, Mike Officer’s Carlisle Winery continues to not only protect heritage old-vine sites in Northern California, but to also turn out a bevy of realistically priced, delicious, consumer-friendly wines, primarily from Zinfandel, although Officer can also turn a trick or two with Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah."
Jeff Cohn 2015 Cassata Vineyard Zinfandel, Sonoma County
$ 42.99
95 Points
Jeff Cohn, former winemaker at Rosenblum, now makes some fantastic small-production wines and Zins. Highly recommended.
95 Points Robert Parker: "I tasted a half-dozen Zinfandel-based cuvées from Jeff Cohn – and all of them merit serious attention from wine consumers. The 2014 Zinfandel Cassata Vineyard is 75% Zinfandel and 25% Petite Sirah with 15% whole clusters. This is a killer Zinfandel with floral notes, loads of blackberry and blackcurrant fruit, medium to full-bodied and, somehow, hiding all of its high-octane 15.6% alcohol. Stunningly floral, rich, full-bodied and compelling, this is a stunner to drink over the next 7-8 years....One of my favorite winemakers in all of California is Jeff Cohn. He continues to show a Midas touch with many different grape varieties. Kudos to Jeff Cohn for this incredible, creative and brilliant portfolio of wines."
Ridge 2016 Lytton Springs Red, Dry Creek Valley
$ 44.00
95 Points - new release
The new Ridge Lytton Springs Red now available! Limited.
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2016 Lytton Springs is a powerful, dense wine. Black cherry, plum, lavender, new leather, cloves, licorice and menthol flesh out. Deep, plush and richly textured, the 2016 Lytton Springs packs a real punch. The 23% Petite Sirah is felt in the wine's darkness and overall gravitas. There is more than enough richness and structure to support many years of fine drinking. What a gorgeous wine this is."
92+ Robert Parker: "The 2016 Lytton Springs is also excellent, offering up aromas of crushed currants, plums, candied violets and baked clay. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, rich and youthfully chewy, with a crunchy core of fruit and fine-grained but firm structuring tannins. It's a bit more burly and rustic than the satiny, sumptuous Geyserville this year—no surprise, given that the blend contains fully 23% Petite Sirah (alongside 69% Zinfandel, 6% Carignane and 2% Mataro)...
...This was a great set of recent releases from Ridge, with the superb 2016 Geyserville standing out as a particular highlight. I've also included a few notes on barrel samples tasted at the Monte Bello winery. For my notes on the winery's flagship Bordeaux blend, Monte Bello, readers are directed to my extensive feature on that wine, also published in this issue. Ridge boasts as illustrious a history as any winery in California, but they certainly aren't resting on their laurels. Indeed, a persuasive case could be made that Ridge is currently producing the best wines they've ever made."
Brown Estate 2017 Napa Valley Zinfandel
$ 44.99
One of our favorite small production California Zinfandels for years, The Brown Estate Zinfandel is a beautifully structured, elegant zinfandel. This wine has the great upfront fruit that is a hallmark of Zinfandel, but it also has the polish, elegance, and complexity that makes this a wine to ponder. Wonderful raspberry fruit, with a silky mouthfeel and wonderful balance makes this wine a winner. ST 92 pts.
The Brown Family are the proud owners of this small property located in the Chiles Valley district of the Napa Valley. The Zinfandel grown and produced here is nothing short of spectacular! They have been selling their prime Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon fruit to the likes of Grgich Hills and Green & Red Vineyards.
Gamba 2017 Old Vines Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 44.99
New release of one of our favorite boutique California Zins! Only 650 cases produced, get this up-and-coming Cult Zin before its gone.
previous vintage 94 Points Wine Spectator: "This is what Russian River Zinfandel is all about. Rich, dynamic and layered, with complex fruit, offering notes of jammy black raspberry, stony mineral, herbes de Provence and licorice. The finish unfurls at length. Drink now through 2026."
Robert Parker:..These are pretty serious Zinfandels and certainly Gamba’s name is going to have to be included with some of the stars of Sonoma, such as Hartford Court, Carlisle, Bedrock and even the superstar Turley over in Napa."
If you love the BIG Zin style made famous by wineries such as Turley, Rosenblum and Ridge, you owe it to yourself to get on the Gamba Zinfandel bandwagon.
Valdez 2013 St. Peter's Church Vineyard Zinfandel, Alexander Valley
$ 44.99
The fantastic Valdez 2013 St. Peter's Church Zinfandel is a blockbuster Zin usually only available direct at the winery. We have a small amount of this gem from one of our favorite Zin producers.
94 Points Brix26: "This zin is a blockbuster. Deep dark purple and inky in color that almost looks like a petite sirah. Vibrant and jammy, with black cherry flambé aromas that lead to powerful flavors of boysenberry, roasted anise and smoky pepper. Tannins are ripe but dense. Drink now through 2021."
93 Points Robert Parker: "The Zinfandel St. Peter’s Church Vineyard looks more like Petite Sirah than Zinfandel. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a wine with blockbuster-like richness and intensity, loads of incense, camphor and black fruits, full body and terrific purity. This gorgeous Zinfandel can be enjoyed over the next decade."
Gamba 2016 Old Vine Starr Road Ranch Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 44.99
New release of one of our favorite boutique California Zins! Only 650 cases produced, get this up-and-coming Cult Zin before its gone.
previous vintage 96 Points Robert Parker: "The Zinfandel Starr Road Ranch Old Vine comes from a vineyard planted in 1920. A glorious level of licorice, black raspberry, blackberry, and cassis soars from the glass of this wine that wants to suggest old-vine material from a Mediterranean vineyard – but this is Russian River. Full-bodied, opulent, unctuous and a total decadent, hedonistic and intellectual turn-on, this wine should continue to offer great drinking for at least a decade....These are pretty serious Zinfandels and certainly Gamba’s name is going to have to be included with some of the stars of Sonoma, such as Hartford Court, Carlisle, Bedrock and even the superstar Turley over in Napa."
If you love the BIG Zin style made famous by wineries such as Turley, Rosenblum and Ridge, you owe it to yourself to get on the Gamba Zinfandel bandwagon.
Orin Swift 2017 '8 Years in the Desert' Red Blend
$ 44.99
New!
Exclusive new limited release from Orin Swift Cellars: 8 Years in The Desert. Eight limited edition bottles with be released – one at a time – for the next eight years, every year in October.
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "Deep garnet-purple colored, the Zinfandel Blend Eight Years (a blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Syrah) comes bounding out of the glass with notes of raspberry pie, blackberry preserves and fruitcake with touches of hoisin and Chinese five spice plus and waft of underbrush. Full-bodied, rich and spicy in the mouth, it packs in the black fruit preserves, framed by chewy tannins and finishing on a savory note."
8 Years in the Desert is a blend of: 56% Zinfandel, 34% Petite Sirah, 10% Syrah.
The Story: Dave has included a personal note for everyone selling the wine on the attached and as to what this release means to him after 8 Years of having not worked with Zinfandel which in context is the varietal that helped cement his career in the industry. Unlike other varietals Dave had to draw on an 8 Year memory of making Zinfandel and knowing that there would be a certain level of expectation of quality from both a wine and packaging elements. During the 8 Year hiatus, there has been a focus and thought regarding the wine and label every single day up until the actual harvest and design could begin which multiplied the effort by a factor of 20.
Robert Biale 2015 "Black Chicken" Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 45.99
94 points
The Return of the Black Chicken! One of California's most sought-after Zins is back.
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "The 2014 Zinfandel Black Chicken (its name coming from the code name used when ordering a jug of Zinfandel during the Prohibition era) is another relatively big-boned Zinfandel at 15.3% alcohol. Gorgeously proportioned, textured and almost chewy, this stunningly hedonistic and fleshy, flamboyant Zinfandel delivers abundant glycerin, fruit, quality and personality. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. ..One of the top Zinfandel specialists in Northern California, Robert Biale’s 2014 Zinfandels are all relatively large-scaled wines, ranging from the mid- to upper-14% alcohol levels to mid-15s."
Since 1937, the Biale family has grown Zinfandel along with assorted other varieties on their farm just outside the town of Napa. Their Zins are famous for a certain breed of intensity and power- the kind you get when you restrict yields to only the best, most concentrated, fully ripe fruit each vintage. "Black Chicken" gets its name from Aldo Biale, who used the name as a code word when he started making the wine on the sly in the '40s and didn't want other members of his family to know. Black Chicken is primarily sourced from Biale's Oak Knoll District ranch estate. Grab some of this limited gem before it disappears!
Macauley 2015 Old Vines Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 46.00
An outstanding new Zinfandel discovery from Macauley and winemaker Kirk Venge. Only 375 cases produced.
Winemaker Notes: "This is perhaps the smoothest, silkiest and most seductive tasting Zinfandel I’ve ever made. I would strive to produce this exact bottling every year were it so easily done. The color is an amazing and dark garnet followed by richness and ripeness found in Zins that come only ever so often. The aromatics are well stacked in the glass beginning with sweet red fruit and flowed by barrel vanillin and sweet cocoa. Lastly the typical Zin white pepper and spice finds its place in the furthermost layers of the nose. Moving from the aromatics to the first taste, getting to enjoy this wine is a much anticipated event. The flavors are a pleasant twist of blackberry, vanilla, cassis and sweet density from old vine age supported by the oak. Tannin and acid are interlaced as well offering plenty for this rich Zinfandel to support itself upon. The overall is a polished and pleasing wine that rides the fine line of ripeness with textured mouthfeel and finish that satisfies for over 45 seconds after the first taste. I would anticipate this wine drinking well from inception to 2020 and well beyond."
Carlisle 2015 Montafi Ranch Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 47.00
New release!
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
92 Points Robert Parker: "Another big boy (15.4%) is the 2015 Zinfandel Montafi Ranch, which is 87% Zinfandel and 13% mixed black varieties. Officer has always done a great job with this Zinfandel, and this is another beauty. The vintage seems to have produced this sort of fleshy, flamboyant and dramatic Zinfandel with loads of forward fruit, plenty of blackberry, raspberry and cherry notes as well as some licorice, charcoal and earth. It is delicious already, even though it’s a barrel sample. Drink it over the next 5-7 years...
...A great success story, Mike Officer’s Carlisle Winery continues to not only protect heritage old-vine sites in Northern California, but to also turn out a bevy of realistically priced, delicious, consumer-friendly wines, primarily from Zinfandel, although Officer can also turn a trick or two with Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah."
Carlisle 2014 "DuPratt Vineyard" Zinfandel, Mendocino Ridge
$ 47.00
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
previous vintage 93 Points Robert Parker: "From Mendocino Ridge, the Zinfandel DuPratt Vineyard is one of the few Carlisle Zins that is 100% Zinfandel. It carries its 15.6% natural alcohol naturally, with no heat or harshness. It is an elegant, nearly Pinot Noir-like red in its delicacy and grace. Medium-bodied with beautiful ripeness, crisp, tart acids, and a refreshing, cool climate-like character, it offers a complete contrast to the Russian River and Sonoma Zinfandels. Drink now-2020...
...A great success story, Mike Officer’s Carlisle Winery continues to not only protect heritage old-vine sites in Northern California, but to also turn out a bevy of realistically priced, delicious, consumer-friendly wines, primarily from Zinfandel, although Officer can also turn a trick or two with Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah."
Carlisle 2016 "DuPratt Vineyard" Zinfandel, Mendocino Ridge
$ 47.00
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
previous vintage 93 Points Robert Parker: "From Mendocino Ridge, the Zinfandel DuPratt Vineyard is one of the few Carlisle Zins that is 100% Zinfandel. It carries its 15.6% natural alcohol naturally, with no heat or harshness. It is an elegant, nearly Pinot Noir-like red in its delicacy and grace. Medium-bodied with beautiful ripeness, crisp, tart acids, and a refreshing, cool climate-like character, it offers a complete contrast to the Russian River and Sonoma Zinfandels. Drink now-2020...
...A great success story, Mike Officer’s Carlisle Winery continues to not only protect heritage old-vine sites in Northern California, but to also turn out a bevy of realistically priced, delicious, consumer-friendly wines, primarily from Zinfandel, although Officer can also turn a trick or two with Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah."
Carlisle 2017 "Mancini Ranch" Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 48.00
New release!
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle
previous vintage 96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Another awesome Zinfandel blend from Mike, the Zinfandel Mancini Ranch is 85% Zinfandel and the rest a mix of assorted varieties, from vines planted in 1922, all aged in 21% new French oak. Crème de cassis, plums, cedary spice, and crushed flowers notes, medium to full body, fine, elegant tannin, and an ethereal, seamless texture all make for a thrilling, awesome wine that can be drunk anytime over the coming decade or more. Winemakers Mike Officer and Jay Maddox have hit pay dirt with these latest and across the board, they’re the finest set of releases I’ve tasted from this estate. Hats off to the team here and readers should not miss these wines!"
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Appealingly old-school, briary and zesty, but well-crafted, offering blueberry and cherry flavors, accented by notes of tarragon, dark Asian spices and cracked pepper. Drink now through 2026."
Robert Parker: "...A great success story, Mike Officer’s Carlisle Winery continues to not only protect heritage old-vine sites in Northern California, but to also turn out a bevy of realistically priced, delicious, consumer-friendly wines, primarily from Zinfandel, although Officer can also turn a trick or two with Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah."
Outpost 2016 Howell Mountain Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 49.99
96 points - rare
One of California's finest Zinfandel producers - always extremely limited.
Superstar winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown has completely bowled us over with this one, bursting as it is from the glass with aromas of lemon thyme, blueberry, fig newtons, dried blueberries, black cherry, all lilting above a palate with thrilling concentration. This is spectacular Zinfandel that simply knows exactly how good it is.
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "I loved the 2016 Zinfandel Howell Mountain, and this beauty has everything you could want from a mountain Zinfandel. Possessing a huge perfume of blue fruits, leafy herbs, and cedarwood, it hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, silky tannins, and a pleasure-bent, complex, layered texture that just begs to be drunk. It too will keep for over a decade."
95 Points Robert Parker: "A barrel sample, the 2016 Zinfandel sings of crushed blackberries, fruitcake and raspberry preserves notes with touches of potpourri, incense and Indian spices. Full-bodied, velvety, rich and spicy in the mouth, it delivers mouth-filling berry preserves and exotic spice layers, finishing long with some earthy notions coming through."
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2016 Zinfandel is another superb wine from Outpost. Dark, ample and full-bodied, the 2016 is imbued with tremendous character as well as complexity. Dark cherry, plum, chocolate, leather and smoke all build as this super-expressive Zinfandel shows off its personality. In 2016 the Outpost Zinfandel is outrageously beautiful, not to mention a huge overachiever."
The Prisoner 2017 Red Blend, Napa Valley
$ 49.99
New release!
The new 2017 vintage of Prisoner has arrived!
The Prisoner Red is our most popular and best-selling red wine every year: its simply the most delicious Zin blend available. Don't miss this delicious fruit bomb bursting with deep, rich flavors.
Winemaker Notes: "The wine has a dense red and black hue that is framed in vibrant crimson. Aromas of Bing cherry, espresso, roasted fig and vanillin oak accents are persistent. The entry is powerful and generous supported with lively acidity while flavors of ripe raspberry, pomegranate and wild berry fruit linger harmoniously. Soft, integrated tannin chains allow the wine to be approachable now and provides for a pleasant finish. 51% Zinfandel, 19% Cabernet Sauvignon,15% Syrah, 12% Petite Sirah, 2% Charbono, 1% Grenache."
Robert Parker: "I love what he's done with The Prisoner, a blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and the balance Syrah, Petite Sirah, Charbono, and Grenache. This is a big, sexy, fruit bomb boasting abundant amounts of black, blue, and red fruits along with pepper, spice box, earth, and herbs. It tastes like the unmanipulated essence of the fruit of a Mediterranean vineyard. Soft tannins, medium to full body, and a heady mouthfeel make this a seductive wine to enjoy over the next 2-3 years."
Turley 2016 Juvenile Zinfandel, California
$ 49.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel.
previous vintage 90 Points Robert Parker: "Turley’s Zinfandel Juvenile Vineyard is an assemblage of bits and pieces from different parcels, but overall from the younger vine portion of the multiple terroirs they exploit. The wine is a big, juicy, classic Zinfandel with a dark ruby/purple color, hefty power (15.5% alcohol), without a trace of heat or burn. It has loads of briary blue and red fruits, medium to full body, vibrant acidity, impressive purity and texture. This is a strong effort. Drink it over the next 4-5 years."
Hartford 2013 Highwire Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 55.00
93 Points - limited
Rare single vineyard Zinfandel from Hartford - Limited
93 Points Robert Parker: "Another beauty is the 2013 Zinfandel Highwire Vineyard, which comes from century-old vines, half of which are head-pruned and the other half are trained on a trellising system, hence the name. Aged in 50% new French oak, it includes a small percentage of old vine Carignane in the blend. Terrific blackcurrant and kirsch liqueur notes intermixed with loamy soil, pepper, spice and unsmoked cigar tobacco are all present in this big, full-bodied, powerful Zinfandel. It should drink well for 7-8 years."
93 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Blue and black stone fruits, pepper, savory herbs and dark spices are some of the notes that inform the 2013 Zinfandel Highwire Vineyard. At once quite ripe and also tannic, the Highwire is a bit explosive in style, but all the elements come together very nicely. The huge, resonant finish makes a statement, that is for sure."
In addition to their enviable portfolio of Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs, Hartford Court is one of the top Zinfandel specialists in California. The five 2013 Zinfandels I tasted were all bottled early to preserve their fruit and character."
Fun Fact: The 96-year old Highwire Vineyard takes its name from the vineyards trellising systems: half of the parcel is head trained; half is trained on an unusually high wire strung between each vine. This unconventional trellising method was devised by vineyard owner Lloyd Chelli to permit greater sun exposure and promote even ripening. Both sections of the vineyard are harvested and evaluated individually before selecting the best lots to ensure consistency in style of the incredibly unique 'Highwire' Vineyard Zinfandel. The Chelli family cares deeply for the old vines behind their home. Their dedicated approach to farming is reflected in the character of the wine produced from their vineyard.
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