Readers are most likely to come across a bottle of the 1993 Old Vines Zinfandel, as there is much more of it than Ravenswood's other 1993 cuvees. It exhibits a healthy dark ruby/purple color, a sweet, black-cherry, earth, and spicy-scented nose, layered, opulent flavors, full body, adequate acidity, and a gutsy, robust finish. It can be drunk now or cellared for 5-6 years. With Ravenswood's production soaring to nearly 100,000 cases (60% of which is Vintner's Blend Zinfandel and Merlot), it is amazing that proprietor/winemaker, Joel Peterson, can continue to turn out such intense wines, particularly in view of the cramped cellars in which he must work. The small quantities (only 500-600 cases) of single vineyard Zinfandel he produces, continue to be among the most enticing, flavorful, and distinctive California Zinfandels. The 1993s are all excellent to outstanding wines, save for the Dickerson Vineyard, which for the second consecutive year is not as rich as prior efforts.Tel. (707) 938-1960

Of all the Ravenswood Zinfandels produced, the one readers are most likely to encounter is the Sonoma Old Vines (6,350 cases). The 1992 Old Vines Zinfandel is a terrific, full-bodied, extroverted Zinfandel with a dark ruby/purple color, a richly oaky, black-cherry, and hickory-scented nose, concentrated flavors, a supple personality, and a spicy, long, heady finish. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Tel. (707) 938-1960

The 1991 Sonoma Old Vines Zinfandel is a big, expansive wine bursting with smoky, peppery, berry fruit. There is significant tannin (which is more noticeable in the 1991 than in the 1990), as well as a big, spicy, sweet nose, and broad, audacious flavors. The purity of fruit is super, and the finish long, lusty, and heady. This wine will benefit from another 6-12 months of bottle age and should last for 7-9 years.