1999 Rancho Zabaco Sonoma Zinfandel (Heritage Vines)

[wondersofwine]

Recently read WW's note and haven't tried the
Stefani yet but was impressed with QPR on this one. I first tried it at a tasting and found it intense compared to the Rancho Zabaco California Zinfandel.
$12.99 at the grocery store. 14.5% alcohol
Color: purple red--not clouded but dark and inky; flashes of garnet at the edges or under direct light
Nose: boysenberries, dark plum, heady bouquet (didn't pick up the pepper mentioned on label)
Taste: first taste a little hot from alcohol, only became obvious on the finish or if wine is held in the mouth for a time; with breathing time it mellowed a bit; starts as if light-bodied but takes hold of the palate; elements in balance after time in glass; mild suggestion of port; has a tempered fruit taste (dark fruits) that I like
Food suggestions: grilled burgers or mildly-sauced barbecue or hard cheeses.
Edited because I left out letters in California and misspelled zinfandel. Bad typing day.

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 07-24-2002).]

[This message has been edited by wondersofwine (edited 07-24-2002).]

[winoweenie]

This has been a consistant P/Q favorite on the board. Lots of bamng for the buck. WW