The inexpensive 2008 Zinfandel Heritage Vines (a blend of 89% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Sirah and 2% Syrah) is a big, bold (14.7% alcohol) Zin that truly over-delivers. Full-bodied with lots of berry fruit, spice, pepper, earth and herb characteristics, this is a Rhone Valley-like, gutsy, exuberant Zinfandel to enjoy over the next several years. Another high quality winery that is part of the Gallo empire, Rancho Zabaco concentrates on making high quality Zinfandel in various price ranges.www.ranchozabaco.com

Fruity-sweet and very full-bodied, with powerful, jammy cherry and spice flavors, edged with baked brown sugar. A little too brawny, even for Zin.——S.H.(9/1/2010)—— 83