Soft, simple and somewhat sweet, with the flavors of a Starbucks concoction of chocolate, coffee, raspberries, anise and cinnamon.——S.H.(11/1/2009)—— 84

From the San Francisco Bay, the 2005 Zinfandel Planchon Vineyard is a richly fruited, straightforward, medium to full-bodied, soft Zin that is ideal for near-term drinking. The ever reliable Kent Rosenblum continues to turn out a portfolio of delicious Zinfandels. Along with Napa’s Biale family and a short list of other North Coast producers, Rosenblum Cellars is as good as it gets when it comes to Zinfandel. Petite Sirah may be California’s most underrated wine, especially when it comes to aging potential. It will never possess the complexity of a top Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon, but it can age effortlessly for two decades or more. I still have some Petite Sirahs from the early seventies in my cellar, and they remain delicious wines.Tel. (510) 865-7007

Big, rich, bold and extracted, a thrilling Zin from Contra Costa County. It’s gigantic in blackberry, blueberry, cherry and spice flavors, with a delicious edge of sweet herbs and white pepper. There are substantial tannins but they’re sweet. ——S.H.(12/15/2004)—— 91

A value, the 2001 Zinfandel Planchon Vineyard’s deep ruby/purple color is accompanied by loads of cranberry, plum, and cherry fruit presented in a pure, medium to full-bodied, voluptuous style. This is a powerful yet surprisingly elegant, well-knit, luscious wine to enjoy over the next 2-3 years. Tel. (510) 865-7007

Another smooth, silky wine from this Zinfandel specialist. It’s packed with bold flavors: Chocolate, coffee, plum, blackberry, cherry, vanilla, mocha and toast are all well integrated. The tannins are quite smooth and firm, giving the wine excellent structure and a long finish.——W.E.(11/1/2003)—— 91