Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel California 2008

A cloudy transparent rouge that smells of warmed prune pie with a fruity sugarplum juiciness. Looks so light in the glass- deceptively so- because there's so much depth. Sees 80% used and 20% new oak and gives a pretty balance to the fruit and acidity. Good.

Cline 2008 Californai Zinfandel

All the Cline wines are from 100% solar powered vineyards and are organically grown but not certified organic. Rhone style wines are Cline's strength. This zin is medium-cherry colored cherry-cola on the first scent and has bright notes after the first taste. THe finish is dry and lean. A bit restrained. But a decent zin for the cost.

Sutton Cellars "la solera" 2nd bottling

A sherry or banyuls-style wine (using syrah and zinfandel with a dash of Carignagne) blended from 8 vintages. Looks cloudy, raisin-colored with a wonderful fruitcake character that starts with a delicious acidity and creme caramel with full prune center and a fresh cherry center. This is another special treat from Carl Sutton- a winemaker who certainly marches to his own drum. Try it, before it disappears. Only 300 cases produced.

Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2007

California 14.5% alcohol. Medium to big and jammy ripe fruits with cedary flavor and a mouthful of berries. Very drinkable, pair with salty foods and nuts.

Clockspring 2006 Zinfandel Amador County

Organic. Nice, ripe berry aromas with a hint of vanilla and cassis. Bright and acidic on the finish but has a fairly rich body with flavors of cherry, raisin, and a hint of mint. Very nice for such a reasonable price!

Girard Old Vine Zinfandel 2006

Nearly opaque, this wine appears dense and deep violet in color. Very nicely balanced oak-aged (will get more info).

I should definitely get this for the fall! PS, Paul loved it, too.

Estancia Zinfandel Paso Robles 2006

Keyes Canyon Ranches. Warm, plum jam scent. 13.5% alcohol gives it a little kick in the back. 12 months in Hungarian and American oak. I carry this wine and it's a very nice $12.99 red zinfandel.