One of the few outstanding Zinfandels of the vintage is Biale’s 2005 Zinfandel Monte Rosso, which demonstrates the terrific terroir of this superb site in Sonoma. Deep ruby to the rim with pure notes of black raspberries, cherries, garrigue, and pepper, it is a complex, medium-bodied, rich, spicy, flavorful Zin to enjoy over the next 2-3 years. Biale, one of the two or three finest Zinfandel producers in California, has done exceptionally well in the 2005 vintage, a mediocre to poor year for this varietal. That speaks loudly about Biale’s abilities as I tasted through nearly 300 Zinfandels, and very few could be recommended. In short, there was not enough heat in the 2005 growing season for Zinfandel to fully ripen. Tel. (707) 257-7555; Fax (707) 257-0105