The 2006 Zinfandel Carlo’s Ranch is a fleshy, rich, full-bodied Zinfandel that possesses abundant fruit, fat, and concentration as well as an amazing character. Mike Officer is quickly rising to the top of the qualitative pyramid when it comes to Zinfandel, and, more recently, Petite Sirah and Syrah. Working from old vine Zinfandel vineyards in Dry Creek, Sonoma, and Russian River, he is giving some of Napa’s top-notch Zinfandel producers, such as Biale and Turley, a run for their money. Starting as a home winemaker in 1998, Officer is now zeroing in on a 5,000 case production of wines that are poster children for hedonism and exuberant joy. Carlisle’s 2007s reveal that vintage’s luscious fruit. Syrah should be selling better in the marketplace than it does. Perhaps consumers are confused by the ocean of cheap Shiraz from Australia, and fail to recognize how much quality California Syrah offers. Carlisle’s Syrahs are all noteworthy efforts. Brilliant winemaking, a highly committed proprietor, and extraordinarily fair prices make Carlisle a no-brainer for wine consumers looking for fun.Tel. (707) 566-7700; Fax (707) 566-7200

A knock-out Zinfandel is the 2005 Zinfandel Carlo’s Ranch, a blend of 98% Zinfandel (planted in 1934) and the 2% balance consisting of Petite Sirah and Carignan. The wine has a deep ruby/purple color, a sweet nose of raspberries and red fruits, some spicy, earthy notes, a floral character as well as good acidity, yet full-bodied power and richness. Drink it over the next 3-4 years. Previously recommended: 2004 Syrah Judge Family Vineyard (95), 2004 Syrah Pelkan Ranch (90), 2004 Three Birds (93), 2004 Two Acres (93), 2004 Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard (93), 2004 Zinfandel Carlo’s Ranch (91), 2004 Zinfandel Fava Ranch (91), 2004 Zinfandel Rossi Ranch (92), 2004 Zinfandel Tom Feeney Ranch (94).Tel. (707) 566-7700; Fax (707) 566-7200

The 2004 Zinfandel Carlo’s Ranch (the old DeLoach Papera Vineyard) offers a deep ruby/purple color as well as an elegant nose of sandalwood and briery, berry fruit. Made from cool climate fruit, there is a Pinot Noir-like approach in this offering. The ripe, powerful 2004 should drink well for 5-6 years. Readers should not hesitate to get on Carlisle’s mailing list before the world discovers what compelling beverages are being produced here.Previously recommended: 2003 Petite Sirah (94+), 2003 Syrah Bennett Valley (95), 2003 Syrah Pelkan Ranch (93), 2003 Two Acres (94), 2003 Zinfandel Dry Creek (91), 2003 Zinfandel Sonoma County (91), 2003 Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard (93), 2003 Zinfandel Fava Ranch (92), 2003 Zinfandel Riebli Ranch (90), 2003 Zinfandel Rossi Ranch (94), 2003 Zinfandel Tom Feeney Ranch (95).Tel. (707) 566-7700; Fax (707) 566-7200