Ravenswood Zinfandel Big River Vineyard is a delicious Zinfandel with all the jammy and spicy character you crave from an excellent old vine Zinfandel. The wine opens quickly both to nose and palate. Deep and fleshy with flavors of blackberry and plum, this Alexander Valley Zinfandel is complimented by a supple tannin structure.
Patience, Grasshooper, Patience. Ravenswood Barrica Single Vineyard is a very structured Zinfandel. At opening this zinfandel (24% Petite Sirah) is a bit tight, but give it time to breathe and it opens nicely albeit still structured. This old vine, low yield, dry farmed vineyard produces an intense and perfumed wine. We were surprised at how well this wine paired with our dinner of pasta with a rustic spicy Italian meat/tomato sauce. The food enhanced the wine and the wine enhanced the food. The way it should be!
Expression 44 Willakia Vineyard is an excellent assertive and powerful Oregon Pinot albeit a bit on the pricey side. Lots of black cherry, oak and spice with a graceful balance. A lovely nose, full mouth-feel and lingering finish add to the enjoyment. Plenty of 90+ ratings.
Black Zeppelin is a “big boy” wine. Lots of Petite Sirah black jammy fruit, tannins and oak create a complex structure. A bit less black pepper than others I enjoy but still a good spicy flavor. As of January 2011, The 2009 Black Zeppelin was still a very young wine and it needs some time to fully develop. Be sure to let it decant for up to a hour.
Four Graces Willamette Pinot Noir is a lovely example of Oregon Pinot. Not as brash and busty and those from California, the wine has full red and black fruit with subtle earthiness and silky tannins. Ten months in French oak adds to the complexity and balance.
