For a bit less than TWENTY BUCKS -

[mrdutton]

For a bit less than $20.00 this has got to be the best Zinfandel I've ever tasted. For any amount of money this is superb wine. I was really impressed as soon as I pulled the cork. I was convinced after the first swirl of the glass before I even tasted it.

Blockheadia Ringosii

1999 California Zinfandel, Lorenza Lake Winery, by Michael Ouellette, Oakville, California.

14.5% Alcohol, peppercorns, earth, game (This stuff has got to be the perfect match for venison, elk, moose, bear, and wild turkey.) and blackberries and plums. Little or no oak.

This is 100% Zinfandel from the following regions:

Lodi 50%
Napa Valley 24%
Sonoma 17%
Russian River 9%

Winemaker's comment: The grapes from Lodi produce lush flavors of blackberry jam and figs. Napa Valley grapes add backbone & pepper while the Russian Rivwer and Sonoma fruit provide a distinctive note of bright plum flavors.

For me, this wine is a real turn-on. I'm really impressed! So much wine, so little time.............

[winoweenie]

Mike Q and his partner are in the restaurant biz in San Fran. 96 was their 1st vintage. Some pretty good grapes from outside of Oakville in the juice. Yhe 96 is just now comin' on. WW

[zenda2]

Just had a bottle of this, and I heartily approve. Not much to add, just 'seconded'. All in favor, say 'aye'.

[Drew]

Notice it's another '99...looks to be a great vintage. Thanks for the 1 up Mike and I'm on the prowl for it.

Drew

[Thomas]

you guys should try Pellegrini Old Vine 99 Zinfandel--under twenty also--spectacular.

[Kcwhippet]

Foodie,

Is that Pelligrini, as in Long Island? Where would they get old vine zin from?

[Thomas]

Nope; it's Pellegrini from Sonoma.