Zinfandels

Hello, everyone.  I had the opportunity to enjoy two terrific Zinfandels with friends last week.  The first is Old Vine Zinfandel 2009 from Seghesio in Sonoma County.  Like most Zin’s, it is robust and fairly high in alcohol at 15%. The wine is deep red in color with aromas of dark berries and spice.  It is full bodied and silky smooth on the palate with a long finish.  Seghesio’s “old vines” are truly that with vineyards planted between 1920 and 1950.  This wine would pair well with spicy foods or rich cheeses.  It received high ratings from the major wine journals, scoring between 92 and 94 points.

The second wine is one I have had before and enjoyed, again, with friends over dinner Saturday evening.  It is Peter Franus 2008 Brandlin Vineyard Zinfandel from Napa Valley.  This is another giant wine with heavier spice than the Seghesio and rich blueberry flavors.  Mr. Franus is also growing grapes on old rootstock dating back to the 1920’s.  We enjoyed this fabulous red with grilled lamb chops, freshly picked asparagus, and yummy, cheesy scalloped potatoes.  Wine & Spirits Magazine rated this wine 94 points and awarded it “Year’s Best Zinfandel”.  These higher end Zinfandel’s retail in the $30+ range.

Life is good!