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.
Peg Melnik
Wine, The Press Democrat
Northern California is cradled in vines; it’s Wine County at its best in America. My job is to help you make the most of this intriguing, agrarian patch of civilization by inviting you to partake in the wine culture – the events, the bottlings and the fun. This is a space to explore wine, what you care about or don’t know about yet.
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