One of the first wines I revisited (sampled) after entering the "Dark Side". And it is as amazing as I remembered, invoking memories of my vineyard tour over a dozen years ago: the vines are indeed OLD and GNARLY, with some having the diameter of tree trunks. The vines were spaced far apart, as far as I am tall, having seen many manicured vineyards with trellis systems, this was a revelation to me. If you get the chance, I highly recommended seeing Monte Rosso Vineyard. The soil, the vines themselves, and of course the scenery will be one of those experiences that cannot be fogotten.

Occasionally I have been known to zin with reckless abandon, and this wine will do just fine. This zinfandel is produced from the fruit picked from the “Heritage 1904” (Russian River) and Alexander Valley vineyards of Sonoma County. Tantalizing aromas of blackberry, earth and wonderful cigar box waft up from the glass. I’m feeling zin-ful already, looking over my shoulder, as if caught in the act. The flavors … oh my God! Dry yet fruit-forward, unctuous black cherry, pomegranate, wild game, and the trademark spice notes come lunging forward.

Terrific aromas of black cherry, cassis and subtle vanilla come wafting up out of the glass. This dry zinfandel offers moderate tannins, medium body and near perfect balance between the sugars and acids making it a real winner. Flavors of plum, licorice, cassis, and game are ever present. This wine has an incredibly long finish, but requires some decanting before consumption. Ooh baby, this wine is mature and ready to drunk.

I hadn’t “Zinned” in awhile, so tonight was the perfect night to delve into vice. This zinfandel is an intriguing little gem. The nose offers aromas of blackberry, cherry blossom, smoke and a very modest herbal note. The palette is dry, yet fruit forward, with very soft tannins. Surprisingly mellow for a Zin! Flavors of blackberry, dark red cherry, savory meat and pepper prevail. Forgive my creative writing license, but this wine offers a kick-ass, fruit filled finish. Hat’s off to wine maker and fellow “paisano” Ed Sbragia!