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Red Zinfandel Wines
Klinker Brick 2016 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 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!
Girard 2017 Old Vines Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 24.00
A fantastic value in Old Vines Napa Valley Zin! The Girard 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."
Robert Biale 2019 "Party Line" Zinfandel, Noth Coast
$ 24.95
new!
A fantastic buy in California Zinfandel from Biale - delicious!
Party Line is a throwback to the old days of Zinfandel when California’s wine-growing families made wine for every-day consumption. The 2018 Party Line is a fun and light hearted red wine that is made to enjoynow. Layered with aromatics of dusty strawberries, red licorice, black cherries and raspberry taffy. The entry is soft and weighty with succulent mid palate tannins that make for a long and juicy finish.
Perfecting the old California classics, Robert Biale Vineyards has become a revered standard of heritage Vineyard Zinfandel and Petite Sirah in Napa Valley. Napa natives, school chums, and winery Founders, Bob Biale and Dave Pramuk, cherish the tradition of historic old vines (some dating to the 1880s!) and prize the small quantity of concentrated and intense fruit that they produce. Diligent farming, expressive terroir, and superb elegance are the winery’s hallmarks. Among the winery’s portfolio of 20 wines that are crafted by winemaker Tres Goetting, Black Chicken Zinfandel is the flagship – and has become a benchmark for the varietal. It all started in the 1940’s when 14 year-old Aldo Biale helped his mother to make ends meet by selling to insider Napans – along with eggs and produce -some of the family’s homemade Zinfandel. Over the old “party line” phone system, the code words “a Black Chicken” signified a jug of bootleg wine…and kept nosy neighbors and the authorities from finding out about Aldo’s underground Zinfandel operation!"
Seghesio 2018 Sonoma County Zinfandel
$ 24.99
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."
Bedrock 2018 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 2018 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."
91 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Zinfandel Old Vine is bright, floral and beautifully perfumed. Crushed red berries, flowers and sweet spice give the 2018 a very pretty sense of lift. In 2018, the Old Vine is especially gracious and light on its feet. The blend incorporates fruit from a number of top sites, including Bedrock, Teldeschi, Esola, Pagani, Papera, Evangelho and Pato."
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.
Elyse 2018 'C'est Si Bon' Red Blend, California
$ 24.99
In French, C'est Si Bon means "It's so good" - Need we say more? A delicious red field blend from Elyse.
The Elyse 2018 C'est Si Bon has a ripe nose of candied raspberry, violets and cocoa powder give way to a luscious mouthful of Rainier cherry, crisp cranberry and a savory hint of thyme. This easy going red is perfect for year round sipping whether at cocktail parties or backyard barbecues. Super soft tannins even allow for light chilling in the Summer months ... Did we mention "It's so good!"
A combination of four unique vineyard sites, each parcel adds to the layers of this wine and its polished, approachable character. Spanning three appellations of Northern California, this wine is proof that sometimes the sum is greater than its parts.
Ottimino 2015 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. 2018 "Saldo" Zinfandel, California
$ 29.99
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 2018 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.
93 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2018 Three Valleys is another terrific 2018 from this team. A blend of 70% Zinfandel, 14% Petite Sirah, 12% Carignan, and the rest Mataro, it plays in the medium-bodied, elegant end of the spectrum and has wonderful purity in its blue fruits, peppery herbs, violets, and sandalwood aromas and flavors. Nicely textured, elegant, and seamless on the palate, with good acidity, this ethereal, balanced beauty can be drunk today or cellared for 10-15 years."
92 Points Wine Spectator: "Svelte and briary, with vibrant raspberry and black cherry flavors, accented by licorice, tarragon and white pepper notes. Finishes with snappy tannins. Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Carignane and Mataro. Drink now through 2028. "
Ridge 2018 East Bench Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley
$ 29.99
Fantastic new Ridge Zinfandel from the Dry Creek Valley.
92 Points - Wine Spectator Magazine: "Appealingly old-school and just rustic enough to highlight the vibrant, briary wild berry flavors, laced with dried sage and licorice notes, building tension toward lively tannins. Drink now through 2028."
The growing season at this hilltop vineyard began favorably with mild spring weather. Thanks to steady, warm weather throughout August, all seven parcels were ready to pick by early September. After fermenting each separately, we chose six for their exuberant fruit, elegant tannins and balanced acidity. Enjoyable upon release the exemplary Ridge 2018 East Bench Zinfandel will evolve over six to seven years.
Frank Family 2017 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 33.00
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.
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.
Ghost Block 2017 Pelissa Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 34.99
New release of Ghost Block Zinfandel now available!
The Pelissa vineyard is located on Oakville Crossroads directly behind Ghost Block winery, creating this Estate grown & produced Zinfandel. With Napa Valley elegance, the Ghost Block 2017 Pelissa Vineyard single vineyard Zinfandel offers layers 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 2016 'Block 7 & 22' Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 34.99
94 points
Fantastic new Zinfandel from Hendry!
94 Points Wine Enthusiast: "This is a spicy, sublime and expansive wine, full bodied no doubt, yet brimming in freshness and complexity. It is red-fruit driven and dazzles in white and black pepper, accented by dashes of cinnamon and nutmeg. It has a long-lasting texture and richness."
The Hendry family has been farming in Napa since 1939. Their Block 7 and Block 22 were planted in 1975 and 1995 respectively. All of the Hendry wines are made with estate fruit, and blocks 7 and 22 are located on the benchlands west of the city of Napa. Block 7 was planted in 1975 and block 22 was planted in 1995.
Ridge 2018 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.
Rombauer 2018 Zinfandel, California
$ 34.99
New Release of Rombauer's coveted Zinfandel!
The Rombauer Vineyards 2018 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.
Turley 2018 Old Vines Zinfandel, California
$ 34.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel.
previous vintage 92 Points Robert Parker: "Medium to deep ruby-purple in color, the Turley Zinfandel Old Vines features exotic spice accents over a core of blueberry and boysenberry compote, crushed black cherries and berries with notes of cinnamon stick and potpourri. Medium to full-bodied, it has loads of spicy black and blue fruits in the mouth with firm, ripe tannins to frame and juicy acidity, finishing long and very spicy.
91 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2017 Zinfandel Old Vines is rich, ample and fleshy. The heat of the year gave the Old Vines a little extra kick. Dried cherry, licorice and spice add an exotic flair to this super-expressive wine loaded with class and pedigree. "
...One of California's great wineries, Larry Turley's Turley Wine Cellars continues to play a critical role in safeguarding the Golden State's viticultural heritage, saving old, head-trained and sometimes own-rooted vineyards from destruction. With fully 29 different bottlings, Zinfandel (often complemented by small amounts of other co-planted varieties, such as Carignan and Grenache) is the standard-bearer here, though Turley also does a fantastic job with other varieties, most obviously Petite Syrah. Given how distinctive each of the single-vineyard bottlings is, it's tempting to suggest (though some will no doubt think it heretical) that Zinfandel might be the variety best adapted to expressing "terroir" in California."
Tofanelli Vineyards 2016 Estate Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 36.99
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!
92 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2016 Zinfandel Tofanelli Family Vineyard is classic Zin all the way with its exotic bouquet of spice, cedar, white pepper, and blueberry pie. This medium-bodied, balanced, elegant effort has the class and length to evolve nicely for at least 10-12 years. The blend is 90% Zinfandel and 5% each of Petite Sirah and Grenache, aged mostly in used oak."
91 Points Robert Parker: "Comprised of 90% Zinfandel, 5% Grenache and 5% Petite Sirah aged 19 months in 15% new French oak, the medium garnet-purple colored 2016 Zinfandel has this classic, rock-star nose of boisterous black cherry compote, raspberry pie and fruitcake scents with hints of Chinese five spice, incense and potpourri. Rich, full-bodied and decadently fruited, it has a nice plush frame and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy. 110 cases produced."
Frog's Leap 2017 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 36.99
One of Napa Valley's Classic Zinfandels!
Frog's Leap 2017 Zinfandel Napa Valley draws its power from sophistication instead of raw alcohol content. Made in the classic field blend style including significant portions of Petite sirah and Carignane.
Antonio Galloni: "Frog's Leap is one of Napa Valley's older-guard estates. The wines are classically built, delicious and incredibly fairly priced by today's standards. If that isn't a compelling value proposition, I don't know what is."
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."
Old Ghost 2016 Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 38.99
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.
Chateau Montelena 2015 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 39.00
New Zinfandel from Chateau Montelena. Limited.
Beautiful and dark garnet in color, the Chateau Montelena 2015 Zinfandel opens with aromas of bright raspberry and floral top notes; followed by cedar, dried berries, dried plums, and the classic Zinfandel briar-berry along with hints of pipe tobacco and dusty cocoa. The palate opens softly, with exceptional balance, and builds nicely into a good full finish. Dried fruit notes are perfectly complemented by fresh, red currant and mature black fruit flavors. Very juicy on the palate, it is ripe and sweet, with good length and just a hint of herbs on the finish. It shows good weight and velvety tannins throughout - very fleshy without being overbearing - and should pair nicely with a wide variety of dishes.
Brown Estate 2018 Chaos Theory Napa Valley
$ 39.99
One of our favorite small production Zinfandel producers, Brown Estate makes a fantastic red blend called Chaos Theory, a delicious mix of 50% Merlot, 25% Petite Sirah, 25% Zinfandel blend that will delight all red wine fans. Limited.
The 2018 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 2014 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,
Limerick Lane 2013 Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 39.99
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.
Turley 2015 Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 39.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel.
Tasting Notes: "Winemaker Tegan Passalacqua’s family owns the Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi, and the Zinfandel Kirschenmann Vineyard (15.2% alcohol) is yet another Turley offering that wants to transport the taster to the Southern Rhône Valley of France. Yet it is more than the powers of suggestion that the aromas of raspberry, kirsch liqueur, earth, spice and pepper are all present in this wine, made from head-pruned, ungrafted vines. This is a juicy, up-front, full-bodied yet elegant Zinfandel to drink over the next 5-6 years. ."
Ridge 2017 Lytton Springs Red, Dry Creek Valley
$ 39.99
95 Points - new release
The new Ridge Lytton Springs Red now available! Limited.
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Ridge's Lytton Springs opens up beautifully, with bright acids that drive a whole range of red/purplish fruit intermingled with floral notes. Creamy and ample in feel, the 2017 boasts superb balance and pedigree. Readers lucky enough to own it should plan on cellaring it for at least a few years."
91 Robert Parker: "The 2017 Lytton Springs is made up of 74% Zinfandel, 15% Petite Sirah, 9% Carignane and 2% Mataro. It aged in 100% air-dried American oak, 10% new. Medium ruby-purple, it opens with dried flowers, autumn leaves and cinnamon stick notions over a core of crushed red cherries, dried cranberries, apricot, underbrush, red currant and black cherries with a super spicy undercurrent. The palate is medium-bodied, spicy and fresh with a grainy frame and juicy freshness, finishing long and lifted...
...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."
Limerick Lane 2018 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 2018 Zinfandel Russian River Estate shows the quality of the vintage beautifully. Classic black and blue fruits, violets, peppery herbs, and spiced orange zest notes all emerge from the glass, and this puppy hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, no hard edges, a seamless texture, and just everything in the right places. Flawlessly balanced and already a joy to drink, it's going to keep for 10-12 years in cold cellars."
93 Points Antonio Galloni: "The 2018 Zinfandel (Russian River Valley) is fabulous. Rich, inky and full of flavor, the 2018 is a total rockstar. Varietal flavors are kicked up a few notches in a juicy, forward Zinfandel that offers plenty of Russian River exuberance. All I can say is: Wow!"
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 2018 "Piner-Olivet Ranches" Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 39.99
95 Points
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "One of the stars in this range, the 2018 Zinfandel Piner-Olivet Ranches is a blend of several vineyards that is meant to capture this specific district within the Russian River Valley. In 2018, those sites are Papera, Carlisle and Mancini, a combination that works brilliantly. Dark red /purplish fruit, lavender and menthol flesh out effortlessly, with bright acids that punctuate the finish."
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."
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."
Brown Estate 2018 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.
Jeff Cohn 2016 Cassata Vineyard Zinfandel, Sonoma County
$ 44.99
95 Points
Jeff Cohn, former winemaker at Rosenblum, now makes some fantastic small-production wines and Zins. Highly recommended.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Mostly destemmed and brought up in 25% new French oak, the 2016 Zinfandel Cassata Vineyard is one of the riper, more rounded, sexy wines in the lineup. Cassis, black raspberries, toasted spice, graphite, and hints of baking spices all emerge from this medium to full-bodied, powerful effort that stays beautifully balanced and elegant on the palate. It's an incredibly completely, voluptuous wine to drink over the coming 8-10 years."
Robert Parker: "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."
Gamba 2017 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.
Ridge 2018 Geyserville Red, Sonoma County
$ 44.99
The most ageworthy of all Ridge zinfandels, the Ridge Geyserville can be magnificent when young. From legendary 130 year old vines!
93 Points Wine Spectator: "Robust yet brooding, with multilayered black plum, licorice and Asian five-spice powder flavors that build richness toward big, briary tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet. Best from 2022 through 2030."
previous vintage 95 Points Rober Parker: "A first look at the 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.
Orin Swift 2018 '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.
92 Points Robert Parker: "Composed of Zinfandel with Syrah, Petite Sirah and Grenache, the 2018 Red Blend 8 Years in the Desert was aged for eight months in American oak barrels (37% new). Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes roaring out of the glass with notions of baked black cherries, raspberry preserves, blueberry tart and potpourri plus hints of garrigue, tobacco leaf and cinnamon stick. Full-bodied, the richly fruited palate has a pleasantly chewy texture and loads of savory layers coming through on the finish."
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.
Turley 2018 Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 44.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel from the Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi.
94 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Zinfandel Kirschenmann is a perfect example of what makes this vintage so appealing. Always a lighter, rather perfumed wine, the Kirschenmann has striking mid-palate sweetness and depth, both of which round the wine out beautifully. Ripe blueberry, mint and spice notes all run through this racy, expressive Zinfandel."
Tasting Notes: "Winemaker Tegan Passalacqua’s family owns the Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi, and the Zinfandel Kirschenmann Vineyard (15.2% alcohol) is yet another Turley offering that wants to transport the taster to the Southern Rhône Valley of France. Yet it is more than the powers of suggestion that the aromas of raspberry, kirsch liqueur, earth, spice and pepper are all present in this wine, made from head-pruned, ungrafted vines. This is a juicy, up-front, full-bodied yet elegant Zinfandel to drink over the next 5-6 years."
Disciples 2018 Red, Napa Valley
$ 44.99
New release!
The fourth vintage of Dave Phinney's Disciples Red, the 2017 has arrived. The new Prisoner! Limited.
93 Points Robert Parker: "A blend of 76% Zinfandel, 13% Charbono, 6% Grenache and 5% Petite Sirah, the 2016 Disciples is medium to deep garnet-purple in color with gorgeous notions of hoisin, Black Forest cake, prunes and potpourri with hints of black pepper, unsmoked cigars and cloves. Full-bodied, rich, opulent and oh-so-spicy, it fills the palate with decadent fruit and a plush texture, finishing with a lively lift."
From the new winery The Crane Assembly, the Disciples Red has quite a back story. In August of 2012, four friends (Dave Phinney, Darryl Browman, Kevin A. Fox and Bryan D. Sandoli) stood in the middle of a block of hundred year old Zinfandel. The vineyard was planted by George Beldon Crane in the late nineteenth century and is one of the icons of the Napa Valley. Hours earlier they had signed the paperwork to buy the vineyard and it was just in the nick of time...they picked the grapes the next morning. Since that first year wines were made from our G.B. Crane Vineyard under the el Coco label and the GB Crane label.
Robert Biale 2018 "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.
94 Points Wine Enthusiast "Editor's Choice": "The producer’s marquee
wine and a nod to its long-standing ties to farming, this is fresh and earthy in notes of crushed rock, slate, dried herb and black pepper. The fruit is layered and sumptuous in flavors of raspberry and black cherry, while supple tannins and a hint of toasted oak provide framing."
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "The 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 2016 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."
Turley 2018 Frederick's Vineyard Zinfandel, Sonoma
$ 46.00
93+ points
Very limited Turley 2018 Frederick's Vinewyard Zinfandel now available.
92+ Points Robert Parker: "The Fredericks vineyard is located very close to the Napa border in the Moon Mountain AVA, planted in 1937 on terraces at an elevation of 900 feet. The 2018 Zinfandel Fredericks Vineyard has a medium to deep ruby-purple color. It offers slowly unfolding aromas of tar, apricot, aniseed and earth. The palate is medium-bodied with a grainy, fresh frame and understated fruits, finishing softly."
...One of California's great wineries, Larry Turley's Turley Wine Cellars continues to play a critical role in safeguarding the Golden State's viticultural heritage, saving old, head-trained and sometimes own-rooted vineyards from destruction. With fully 29 different bottlings, Zinfandel (often complemented by small amounts of other co-planted varieties, such as Carignan and Grenache) is the standard-bearer here, though Turley also does a fantastic job with other varieties, most obviously Petite Syrah. Given how distinctive each of the single-vineyard bottlings is, it's tempting to suggest (though some will no doubt think it heretical) that Zinfandel might be the variety best adapted to expressing "terroir" in California."
Carlisle 2017 "Rossi Ranch" Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley
$ 46.99
94 Points - limited
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
94 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "From a well-known site in Sonoma, the 2017 Zinfandel Rossi Ranch offers ripe blackberry and cherry notes as well as complex ground herbs, underbrush, and earthiness. Medium to full-bodied, seamless, and flawlessly balanced, it has fine tannins as well as a great, great finish."
94 Points Wine Spectator: "A compelling wine that balances a distinct personality with a finely crafted texture and structure. Expressive and brambly black and red fruit pairs with toasty sage and exotic baking spice notes. Drink now through 2029. 1,000 cases made."
Robert Parker: "...From humble beginnings in 1998, Carlisle continues to go from strength to strength, growing from a solid philosophy of sourcing mainly Zinfandel and Rhône varieties from ancient vineyards in Sonoma and further afield. So, most of the vines used by Mike and Kendall Officer were planted from 1888 to 1934. From 2013, they have their own winery in which to create their magic—the old Robert Mueller winery in Russian River Valley."
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."
Mount Peak 2017 Zinfandel Rattlesnake, Sonoma County
$ 47.99
95 Points - New
Fantastic new discovery from Mount Peak. Zinfandel sourced from Rattlesnake Hill at the top of the legendary Monte Rosso vineyard.
91 Points Robert Parker: "Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, the 2017 Zinfandel Rattlesnake gives up a rip-snorting nose of bramble berries, raspberry pie and dried mulberries with hints of fruitcake, charcuterie and black olives. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is plush and generous with bags of savory-laced black fruit preserves, finishing spicy. 520 cases were made."
The story of Mount Peak Winery begins more than a century ago at the celebrated Monte Rosso Vineyard and culminates with the recent revival of the brand by Gallo. A vestige of one of California's great "ghost" wineries, the wines are a tribute to the extraordinary facility that once stood there. Originally built in 1886, Mount Peak was a marvel of innovation with its three-story, gravity-flow system built from rock directly sourced from the dry-farmed Monte Rosso vineyard. While it ultimately emerged as one of California's top producers, it was closed during Prohibition and left abandoned to the elements, laying silent for decades. Over 130 years later, Gallo has revived the site and the vineyard, perched at nearly 1,300 feet along the spine of the Mayacamas Mountains, straddling the Napa and Sonoma Valleys. The steep hillsides are set against a dramatic backdrop and the new Mount Peak label will focus on Cabernet, Zinfandel, and a red blend from the original Monte Rosso fruit. The Gravity is made from plots within the vineyard as well as fruit sourced from Frei Ranch in Dry Creek Valley and Snows Lake in Lake County. It's 33% Petite Syrah, 29% Cab, 21% Zin, 10% Syrah, 5% Grenache, and 2% Barbera.
Carlisle 2018 Papera Ranch Zinfandel, Sonoma
$ 48.00
96 Points - limited
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
96 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "A bigger, richer effort based on 96% Zinfandel and 4% Carignan from a site in the Russian River, the 2018 Zinfandel Papera Ranch offers a meaty, powerful bouquet of black cherries, red plums, Asian spices, and chocolate. This carries to a full-bodied, beautifully textured, opulent Zinfandel that has ripe tannins as well as the seamless, silky style of the vintage. It's beautifully done."
Robert Parker: "...From humble beginnings in 1998, Carlisle continues to go from strength to strength, growing from a solid philosophy of sourcing mainly Zinfandel and Rhône varieties from ancient vineyards in Sonoma and further afield. So, most of the vines used by Mike and Kendall Officer were planted from 1888 to 1934. From 2013, they have their own winery in which to create their magic—the old Robert Mueller winery in Russian River Valley."
Carlisle 2018 Montafi Ranch Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 49.99
95 Pt New release!
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Another Russian River Valley release, the 2018 Zinfandel Montafi Ranch (89% Zinfandel and 11% other assorted varieties) is another ripe, sexy wine. A sweet bouquet of mulberries, red plums, brambly herbs, cigar, and spice box gives way to a plush, full-bodied, sweetly fruited effort that’s loaded with character and just screams world-class Zinfandel! While it's plush and stacked with fruit, it has good acidity and terrific balance, and I suspect is going to evolve for at least a decade."
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Zinfandel Montafi Ranch is another compelling wine in this range from Carlisle. Ripe red cherry, cedar and sweet tobacco are all beautifully lifted. With a bit of air, the Montafi starts to show its considerable weight and resonance. The 11% mixed blacks add quite a bit of character."
...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."
Turley 2018 Cederman Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 49.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel.
93+ Points Robert Parker: "The Zinfandel Cedarman is a blend of fruit from the Rattlesnake Ridge and Dragon vineyards and contains about 18% Petit Verdot. Very deep purple-black in color, it has a very dark, broody nose with dried violets, wild blackberries and briary fruits plus turned earth and nutmeg spice hints. Full-bodied, big and rich in the mouth with tons of lush black fruits and spicy layers, it's framed by very firm, fine-grained tannins and just enough freshness to lift the warm, spice-laced finish. 1,200 cases produced."
...One of California's great wineries, Larry Turley's Turley Wine Cellars continues to play a critical role in safeguarding the Golden State's viticultural heritage, saving old, head-trained and sometimes own-rooted vineyards from destruction. With fully 29 different bottlings, Zinfandel (often complemented by small amounts of other co-planted varieties, such as Carignan and Grenache) is the standard-bearer here, though Turley also does a fantastic job with other varieties, most obviously Petite Syrah. Given how distinctive each of the single-vineyard bottlings is, it's tempting to suggest (though some will no doubt think it heretical) that Zinfandel might be the variety best adapted to expressing "terroir" in California."
Turley 2018 Duarte Vineyard Zinfandel, Contra Costa County
$ 49.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel.
91+ Robert Parker: "Playing it closer to the vest, but still impressive is the 2014 Zinfandel Duarte Vineyard, which comes from sandy soils as well as vines planted between 1890 and 1930 in Contra Costa County. This is another heady Zinfandel (15.5% alcohol) that exhibits a nice, dark ruby color and loamy soil undertones intermixed with blueberry, strawberry and cherry. It seems to be slightly more reserved and tighter, but spicy and rich. This seems like a candidate to improve for another several years and drink beautifully for another 7-8."
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