The 2011 Zinfandel Heritage Vines is a ridiculously delicious wine for the money. Juicy dark cherries, tobacco, menthol and cloves positively burst from the glass. There is no shortage of varietal character in this plush, juicy Zinfandel. At just $15 a bottle, the 2011 is a steal. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2018. Tel. (866) 972-6246

I actually preferred the bigger production, less expensive 2010 Zinfandel Heritage Vines (40,700 cases), which was made from a blend of 93% Zinfandel and 7% Petite Sirah, largely from the Russian River and Lodi areas, that achieved nearly 15% natural alcohol. It possesses a dark ruby/plum color as well as notes of roasted herbs, underbrush, ground pepper, meaty, briery, black cherry and black currant fruit, and abundant spice. This offering borders on being too rustic and earthy, but excellent ripeness, structure, texture and richness are all present. Drink this absurdly priced beauty over the next 1-3 years. Importer :E & J Gallo Winery ;Tel. (877) 687-9463; www.gallo.com

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