Seven 97s

[Bucko]

Listed in no particular order - the Lolonis was the best of the bunch IMO, and none were case buys.

1997 Rancho Zabaco, Zinfandel, Sonoma County, $12. Black fruit and vanilla on the nose that carries over to the palate, nice balance, and a long aftertase. Good value for those liking a moderately oaked style.

1997 Pezzi King, Zinfandel, Estate, Dry Creek Valley, $24. Raspberry and cranberry fruit, nice acidity, moderate coarse tannins that need some bottle time, and a long aftertaste.

1997 Pezzi King, Zinfandel, Small Lot Reserve (SLR), $22. Currents and plums abound, with soft tannins and lovely balance. Approachable now, no old bones here.

1997 Gundlach Bundschu, Zinfandel, Rhinefarm Vineyards, $20. Nice red and black fruit, a hint of pepper, well-balanced, with soft-moderate slightly bitter taninns that should tame with a little bottle time.

1997 Gundlach Bundschu, Zinfandel, Morse Vineyard, $16. Black fruit predominates here, with smooth tannins and a moderate aftertaste. Ready to drink now.

1997 Lolonis, Zinfandel, Redwood Valley. Big, gutsy wine, with jammy red and black fruit, well-balanced oak, nice acidity, and a long, fruity aftertaste. Great with BBQ.

1997 Chateau Souverain, Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, $13. A mix of red and black fruits, soft tannins, and good balance, made in a drink me now style.

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