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Red Zinfandel Wines
Slam Dunk 2019 Red Blend, California
$ 14.99
Fantastic buy!
An amazing buy in a top California Red Blend. We highly recommend this little gem as your new house wine or Tuesday night pick! This is one to buy by the case.
91 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "From the team at Royal Prince, the Slam Dunk 2019 Red Wine (55% Petit Verdot and 45% Zinfandel) has loads of red and blue fruits, flowery incense, and spice aromas and flavors. Ripe, sexy, textured, and balanced, it's a no-brainer purchase."
90 Points Robert Parker: "Composed of 55% Petite Sirah and 45% Zinfandel, the 2019 Red Blend sports a deep garnet-purple color and flamboyant scents of blackberry preserves and black raspberries with hints of stewed plums, fragrant earth and hoisin. Full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of generous black fruit preserves, framed by a plush texture and seamless freshness, finishing long and spicy. A bold, beautiful red with a lot of character and that's just plain delicious, it's a fantastic value! "
The Slam Dunk 2019 Red Blend has a dense purple hue opens with ripe blackberry, preserved plums with notes of shaved cocoaand black pepper. The mouthfeel is packed with sweet black cherry, cinnamon, and clove along with fresh sage and thyme. Long and persistent on the finish, the wine shows ripe tannins and elegant opulence with a focused core of soft vanilla oak.
Klinker Brick 2017 Old Vines Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 19.00
One of the best value boutique Zinfandels in California from Klinker Brick! 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 2017 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, 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!
Carol Shelton 2018 The Wild Thing Old Vines Zinfandel, Mendocino
$ 19.99
A fantastic $20 Old Vines Zinfandel from Carol Shelton.
91 Points Wine Spectator: "A juicy bomb of fruit, this red is also well-structured, with lively raspberry, toasty spice and roasted sage flavors that linger on a snappy finish. Drink now through 2028"
Carol Shelton has been lauded with countless medals and honors through the course of her 35-year winemaking career. In fact, she is said to be one of the most awarded winemakers in the country. Through Carol Shelton Wines, Carol could focus on whatever she chose—and she chose Zinfandel. Eager to capture all the nuances that terroir gives to this intriguing variety, Carol searched through the great California growing regions including Dry Creek Valley, Rockpile, Russian River Valley, Mendocino, and Cucamonga.
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, North 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 Biale 2019 Party Line Zinfandel is a fun and light hearted red wine that is made to enjoy now. 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 2019 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 2024."
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 2019 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 2019 Old Vines Zinfandel is a fantastic wine and unbeatable value.
92 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): “The 2019 Zinfandel Old Vine is gorgeous. Bright acids and floral overtones perk up the red berry fruit in a Zinfandel that delivers the goods, and plenty more. Bright and beautifully layered, the 2019 hits all the right notes. Then again, it is a blend of stellar sites, including Bedrock, Nervo, Sodini, Evangelho, Katushas’, Teldeschi, Pagani Ranch and Old Hill. Because of the COVID pandemic and uncertain short-term economic outlook, the 2019 includes quite a bit of wine that in more normal times would he bottled in the vineyard designates. Stated simply: buy as much as you can.”
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.
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. "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 Zinfandel 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 2019 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 Ridge 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.
Elyse 2018 'C'est Si Bon' Red Blend, California
$ 29.99
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.
Ridge 2019 Paso Robles Zinfandel
$ 31.99
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.
Frank Family 2018 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 2015 Tip Top Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 33.99
This great under the radar Red Zinfandel from Green & Red in 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.
Carlisle 2019 Sonoma County Zinfandel
$ 33.99
Fantastic new Zin release from Carlisle, one of our favorite small producers!
previous vintage 95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "Just about all Zinfandel (there's 2% each of Alicante Bouschet and Petite Sirah), the Carlisle Zinfandel Sonoma County is about as textbook as they come with its deep purple color, black and blue fruits, notes of violets, spice, and flowery incense, and layered, medium to full-bodied mouthfeel. Flawlessly balanced, pure, and seamless on the palate, it's a stunning Zinfandel as well as a great value. Don't miss it."
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."
Ghost Block 2018 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 2018 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 2017 '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. The Hendry 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.
Rombauer 2019 Zinfandel, California
$ 34.99
New Release of Rombauer's coveted Zinfandel!
The Rombauer Vineyards 2019 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.
Bedrock 2018 Schmiedt Rd. Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 35.99
New release!
Bedrock Winery is producing some of the most exciting new releases we've tasted in California and the Bedrock 2018 Schmiedt Road Zinfandel is a great new release.
93 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The 2018 Zinfandel Schmiedt Road, a blend of Katushas and Kirschenmann, is gorgeous, especially within the context of Lodi, where the wines are often a bit rustic. Sweet red/purplish berry fruit is creamy and beautifully perfumed. This mid-weight, delicious Zinfandel is pure sensuality."
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.
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 2018 Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 36.99
One of Napa Valley's Classic Zinfandels!
Frog's Leap 2018 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 2017 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 2019 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 2019 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,
Ridge 2018 Lytton Springs Red, Dry Creek Valley
$ 39.99
96 Points - new release
The new Ridge Lytton Springs Red now available! Limited.
96 Robert Parker: "The Ridge 2018 Lytton Springs is a blend of 72% Zinfandel, 18% Petite Sirah, 8% Carignane and 2% Mataro. The nose is lush and open, with aromas of aniseed, red and blue berries, blood orange and earth plus touches of tobacco leaf and dried flowers. The medium-bodied palate combines intense, powerful flavors with a more ethereal, silty structure, and it finishes with loads of juicy layers. It's stunning straight from bottle but will have more to give with time in the cellar...
96 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The Ridge 2018 Lytton Springs is magnificent. Elegant, layered and so complete, the 2018 has a lot to offer, but it needs time to fully come together. Sweet red cherry, red plum, blood orange, spice, mint and rose petal open up in the glass. Bright acids and beams of tannin give the wine its vibrant energy. Readers should plan on cellaring the 2018 for at least a few years. Wow!"
92 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Checking in as 72% Zinfandel, 18% Petite Sirah, 8% Carignan, and the rest Mourvèdre, the Ridge 2018 Lytton Springs has a more nuanced, complex style that builds nicely with time in the glass. Red plums, mulberries, flowery incense, cedar, and a kiss of chocolate all define the bouquet, and this beauty hits the palate with medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless, elegant texture (which is the hallmark of this vintage), and ample chalky minerality on the finish. It's going to benefit from a year or three of bottle age and shine for over a decade. I've had this cuvée with 20+ years of bottle age and it ages surprisingly well."
Limerick Lane 2019 Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 39.99
95 Points - new release
Limerick Lane is back with a fantastic new Zinfandel. Limited.
92 Points Antonio Galloni9 (Vinous): "The 2019 Zinfandel (Russian River Valley) is bright and full of energy. Ripe red/purplish berry fruit, rose petal, spice, lavender and mint are front and center in this refreshing Russian River Zinfandel. Floral notes and bright acids perk up the finish. This is such a gorgeous wine, and also a great introduction to this lineup. The Russian River Zinfandel is really a Zinfandel-based field blend from Limerick Lane and a handful of other properties, including Banfield, Collins, Sodini and Ponzo. "
Robert Parker: ...The owners of the well-known Marietta Cellars, the Bilbro family, have taken this once-moribund producer, Limerick Lane, and resurrected it to impressive heights of quality. This estate always had some fabulous terroirs spread among their 30 acres of relatively old-vine mixed black blends, dominated by Zinfandel and, to a certain extent, Syrah that readers will adore. They started with a difficult challenge, the 2011 harvest, but brothers Jake and Scott Bilbro hit pay dirt and have continued to build on that success with fabulous wines."
“Limerick Lane’s estate vineyard is one of the great, historic old-vine vineyards of the Russian River Valley. With it’s well-drained, rocky soils and expertly tended vines, it produces wines of exceptional harmony and balance. I have admired this vineyard for decades and am thrilled to see it under the new stewardship of Jake Bilbro.” - Mike Officer, Carlisle Winery
Ridge 2019 Geyserville Red, Sonoma County
$ 39.99
The most age worthy of all Ridge zinfandels, the Ridge Geyserville can be magnificent when young. From legendary 130 year old vines!
95 Points Connoisseurs Guide: "In the very first Issue of Connoisseurs’ Guide, back in November, 1974, Ridge Geyserville was among the most highly praised wines. And, now four decades and five years later, the very same wine sits at the top of the ratings table. But there is an interesting difference. This wine is among the most mannerly Geyservilles ever. Yes, it is its usually deep and complex self with ripe berries both black and blue profoundly expressed all joined with the richness and flavor length that has been prominent in the very best vintages. And, yes, that expected stratum of solid tannins shows up in the finish and promises a long and rewarding aging curve. This is Geyserville, and it still makes our palates sing and puts a smile on our faces. Buy it.
94 Points James Suckling: "The Ridge 2019 Geyserville is a beautiful red with lots of blackberries, cloves, stone, spice and purple fruit. It’s full and balanced with a creamy texture and a flavorful finish. Some graphite to the black fruit. More zin this year in the blend. 71% zinfandel, 19% carignan, 7% petite sirah and 3% alicante bouschet. Drink now."
93 Point Wine Spectator: "Deeply structured, yet nimble on its feet. Blackberry, fresh fennel and brown baking spices build richness and layers toward medium-grained tannins. Zinfandel, Carignane, Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet."
...In January 2021, Ridge's long-time winemaker Eric Baugher announced his departure from the company in order to pursue a new winemaking venture in Napa. John Olney, who has been with Ridge for 25 years, is the new COO and head winemaker. He will oversee production at both the Monte Bello and Lytton Springs facilities.
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.
Gamba 2018 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 2019 '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.
93 Points Robert Parker: "Medium garnet-purple colored, the 2019 Zinfandel Blend 8 Years in the Desert delivers notions of stewed plums, baked raspberries and fruitcake with hints of powdered cinnamon, clove oil, tree bark, hoisin and dusty soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is chock-full of ripe, spicy black and red fruits, supported by chewy tannins and tons of freshness, finishing long and earthy.
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."
The Crane Assembly 2018 'Disciples' Red, Napa Valley
$ 44.99
New release!
The fifth vintage of Dave Phinney's Disciples Red under the Crane Assembly label, the 2018 has arrived. The new Prisoner! Limited.
previous vintage 93 Points Robert Parker: "A blend of 76% Zinfandel, 13% Charbono, 6% Grenache and 5% Petite Sirah, the 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.
Turley 2019 Duarte Vineyard Zinfandel, Contra Costa County
$ 44.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel.
94 Robert Parker: "The 2019 Zinfandel Duarte has a deep ruby-purple color and gregarious perfume of blueberry and blackberry preserves with hints of peaches, aniseed, tar and dried flowers. The palate is medium-bodied, soft, perfumed and approachable with lots of juicy lift on the finish."
Turley 2019 Kirschenmann Vineyard Zinfandel, Lodi
$ 44.99
Very limited Turley Zinfandel from the Kirschenmann Vineyard in Lodi.
92+ Points Robert Parker: "The medium ruby colored 2019 Zinfandel Kirschenmann Vineyard opens with a bit of tarry reduction over a core of black fruits and spices. The palate is offering much more at this youthful stage. It's packed with dark, spiced fruits and is medium-bodied, soft and fresh with an earthy finish. It has great potential and just needs more time in bottle."
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."
Macauley 2017 Old Vines Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 46.00
An outstanding new Zinfandel discovery from Macauley and winemaker Kirk Venge. Only 375 cases produced.
previous vintage 94 Points Robert Parker: "A top-flight effort, the Macauley Zinfandel Old Vine, 88% Zinfandel and 12% Petite Sirah, is a sumptuous, rich, concentrated wine coming from old vines planted in 1904, 1899 and some in the mid-60s. Dense ruby purple with loads of black raspberry and black cherry fruit, an unctuous texture, full-bodied finish, and hefty alcohol at 15.8%, make for a blockbuster Zinfandel to drink over the next 7-8 years...
...If I’m not mistaken, Kirk Venge, the son of Nils Venge, is the consulting winemaker for Macauley, and if so, he has clearly turned in an all-star, world-class performance. His father made the first 100-point Napa Valley wine, the 1985 Groth Reserve, but I think the son has taken up his father’s skill set and now is beginning to build on it. The Macauley Vineyard wines look to be the finest wines they have made to date, so get on board."
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 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."
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."
95 Points Antonio Galloni (Vinous): "The Carlisle 2018 Zinfandel Papera Ranch captures all the exuberance of Russian River Valley. Succulent dark cherry, plum, spice, new leather and cedar build in a sumptuous, creamy Zinfandel that is showing so well today. Bright red toned fruit and sweet floral notes saturate the finish effortlessly. Best of all, the 2018 will drink well with minimal cellaring,"
94 Points Wine Spectator: "The Carlisle 2018 Papera Ranch Zinfandel balances harmony and subtle torque with compelling raspberry and blueberry flavors that are laced with orange peel and smoky pepper notes, taking on richness toward the supple finish. Drink now through 2030."
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 2017 Papera Ranch Zinfandel, Sonoma
$ 48.00
97 Points - limited
Limited new Zinfandel from Carlisle.
97 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "The 2017 Zinfandel Papera Ranch comes from a site close to the Mancini Ranch and vines planted in 1934. Notes of plums, blueberries, violets, and earthy, herbal notes all flow to a full-bodied, incredibly deep, layered and concentrated 2017 that certainly makes the most of the vintage. With ripe tannins, remarkable purity of fruit, no hard edges, and flawless balance, it’s another gem in the vintage."
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."
Robert Biale 2019 "Black Chicken" Zinfandel, Napa Valley
$ 49.95
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 Biale 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!
Gamba 2019 MCM Old Vines Estate Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 49.99
New release of one of our favorite boutique California Zins! Only 650 cases produced, get this up-and-coming Cult Zin before its gone.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "Coming all from the estate in the Russian River valley and all old vine Zinfandel, the Gamba Zinfandel Estate MCM is deeply hued with a beautiful bouquet of blueberries, wild strawberries, cedary spice, orange blossom, and exotic flowers. It’s beautifully balanced, has silky tannins, and just does everything right. It’s a rich, medium to full-bodied Zinfandel yet stays balanced and light on its feet. It’s a beauty.”"
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.
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."
Jeff Cohn 2017 Sweetwater Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley
$ 49.99
95 Points
Jeff Cohn, former winemaker at Rosenblum, now makes some fantastic small-production wines and Zins. Highly recommended.
95 Points Jeb Dunnuck: "I loved the nose on the 2017 Zinfandel Sweetwater Springs Vineyard, a classic Zinfandel loaded with blue fruits, flowery incense, white pepper, and cedary spice aromas and flavors. Playing in the medium to full-bodied, elegant end of the spectrum, it has a seamless texture, light tannins, beautiful balance, and a great finish. It’s a gorgeous Zinfandel from this vintage to drink over the coming 7-8 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."
Turley 2015 Zampatti Vineyard Zinfandel, Sonoma County
$ 49.99
92 Points Robert Parker: "From a site defined by ancient ocean bed soils and a Russian River Valley-like climate, the 2016 Zinfandel Zampatti Vineyard wafts from the glass with aromas of cassis, plums and pencil lead. On the palate, it's medium to full-bodied, supple and layered, with bright acids, a vibrant core of fruit and youthfully chalky tannins. It's one of the highest-acid wines in the lineup, and I'd expect it to age well."
...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."
The Prisoner 2019 Red Blend, Napa Valley
$ 52.00
New release!
The new 2019 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."
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