Five tasty zins to uncork on the Fourth of July

Zinfandel’s origins may reach back to Croatia, but zin-fanatics still consider it the All American grape. This is because sun-kissed California gave zinfandel its signature jammy incarnation. Here are 5 tasty zins to uncork on the Fourth of July.

Dunbar Vineyard, 2012 Sonoma Valley Zinfandel, 14.8%, $32. This is a lovely zinfandel weighted to red, with notes of cherry and raspberry. It has a kick of spice, but the generous fruit is what makes the great impression here.

Edmeades, 2013 Mendocino County Zinfandel, 15%, $20. A layered zinfandel with notes of blackberry, cherry, black pepper and cedar. This zin is savory and spicy, with the kick of petite sirah in the mix. A good pick for the budget minded.

Robert Biale Vineyards, 2014 Black Chicken Napa Valley Zinfandel, 15%, $45. This is a supple zin with generous black and red fruit. It has ripe tannins. This bottling doesn’t get your attention by being a honking zin, but rather by its measured elegance.

St. Francis, 2013 Ciovanetti Vineyard, Russian River Valley, Old Vines Zinfandel, 15.2%, $48. This zin is roaring good with a tangy note of rhubarb amid black fruit. It shores up its flavors with white pepper spice. A nice take on zin.

Mazzocco, 2013 Rockpile Reserve Zinfandel, 15.3%, $60. This tasty zin has ripe blackberry, black pepper and a kiss of vanilla. Long finish. Lovely.