Dark ruby in color, the 2008 Zinfandel Old Crane Ranch (planted in the 1880s and owned by the same family since 1932, the Salvestrins) has an almost Grenache-like, kirsch character. It is one of the more compact, medium-bodied Zinfandels, without the nuances and generosity of the other wines. There is a certain freshness to it, but it is more of a lightweight compared to the other big, brawny Zinfandels from Biale. Nevertheless, this is no wimpy wine. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. There is always a remarkable array of wines from Biale Vineyards. This family has been farming Zinfandel in Napa since 1937, and the wines consistently are among the highlights in my Zinfandel tastings. All of these wine generally have production levels of 200 to 500 cases, with the exception of the Valsecchi, which is only 47 cases, and the Black Chicken, which is nearly 2,600 cases. Tel. (707) 257-7555