The 2003 Zinfandel Monte Rosso, which comes from a vineyard at a 1,300-foot elevation, has a dense ruby/purple color and a beautiful, sweet nose of Chinese black tea, black currant, sweet cherry, sandalwood, and pepper. It is a full-bodied, structured Zinfandel that should last for 7-8 years, possibly longer. Tel. (866) 972-6246

Gallo’s Rancho Zabaco has done a fine job with single-vineyard Zins. This one is an excellent wine, dry, balanced and with the structure of Merlot, with firm tannins encasing berry, earth, coffee and anise flavors. ——S.H.(6/1/2006)—— 90