Two tasty Zins recently......

[Bucko]

2000 Saucelito Canyon, Zinfandel, Arroyo Grande Valley, California, $20. Blackberry and cherry aromas leap from the glass. Light to medium-bodied and the tannins are very easy on the taster. Similar flavors linger on the palate, with a slight peppery note coming in late. This is a good food wine. 88/88.

2001 Saucelito Canyon, Zinfandel, Late Harvest, Arroyo Grande Valley, California, $20 (375 ml), 93 cases. Think extract of crushed berries and roses when smelling this wine. Intensely sweet (15% residual sugar) and fruity, with layers of blackberries, cherries, chocolate and coffee unfolding. The acidity matches the sweetness. 88/88.