The 2009 Zinfandel Varozza Vineyard emerges from the glass with plush dark cherries, plums, spices and licorice. It is one of the most harmonious wines in the lineup. The balance of fruit, acidity and structure is terrific. Layers of fruit build effortlessly to the rich, textured finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. This lineup from Biale is full of fabulous wines. The Zinfandels in particular are well worth seeking out.Tel. (707) 257-7555

There are 275 cases of the 2008 Zinfandel Varozza Vineyard, from another parcel planted in the early 1900s in St. Helena. One of the darker wines in the Biale portfolio, this dense ruby/plum/purple-colored wine has oodles of sweet, pure black cherry and raspberry fruit as well as hints of incense and spice, but the purity, the medium to full-bodied, lush mouthfeel and the silky tannins suggest a wine to drink over the next 3-4 years for its opulence and generosity.There is always a remarkable array of wines from Biale Vineyards. This family has been farming Zinfandel in Napa since 1937, and the wines consistently are among the highlights in my Zinfandel tastings. All of these wine generally have production levels of 200 to 500 cases, with the exception of the Valsecchi, which is only 47 cases, and the Black Chicken, which is nearly 2,600 cases.Tel. (707) 257-7555