Deep purple in color with a yeasty nose, this Zin from the southern end of the Sierra Foothills is structured and intense, dry and more spicy than fruity, with plenty of savory pepper and chocolate throughout. Its 15.5% alcohol level adds a whole other layer of size. Pair with some serious barbecue. ——V.B.(9/1/2011)—— 87

Too soft in structure, with a collapsed feeling behind the cherry-berry flavors, and also too high in alcohol. Glycerine gives the wine a sweet taste, although it’s probably technically dry.——S.H.(9/1/2010)—— 82

Hot, dry and Porty; the thinness of fruit merely accentuates the heat.——S.H.(11/1/2007)—— 81

Try this charmingly rustic wine with almost anything that calls for a very dry red wine. It has earthy, fruity flavors, and the tannins are firm and dusty.——S.H.(8/1/2005)—— 84

Modest flavors of black cherry, plum and spice are framed in mild-mannered toast. Modest at the end as well.——W.E.(11/1/2003)—— 84