Zinfandel is interesting for many reasons, not least of which its long history in California, as well as it’s ability to produce wine in a broad range of styles depending upon the climate in which it is grown. Today’s offering, sourced from 100 year old vines in the unique climate of Contra Costa County, combines both of these factors with another of Zin’s best traits: providing bang for your buck. Contra Costa’s cool nights and maritime breezes have resulted in a fresh, lively wine perfect for Summer.
The 2005 Trinitas Cellars Spinelli Vineyard Zinfandel offers Zinfandel’s characteristic garnet color with just a hint of purple. The nose reveals mixed berries, mulling spice, vanilla and cherry, combining to produce a welcoming, rustic impression. The palate is loaded with bright red fruit, hints of plum, and plenty of earthy spice. Good acid and gritty tannin give this wine a little bit of structure, and carry it through to a lively, fresh finish. This is a wonderful barbecue wine for the warm summer months, and its lightness suggests that you might even try serving it slightly chilled and particularly hot days. At just $19, this is one to stock up on and drink until all summer long.
93 Points
A beautiful garnet color in the glass. Aromas of pomegranate, vibrant cranberry, candied strawberry, gravel, and rose perfume lead to a palate of cinnamon, clove, tea leaf, bing cherry, a touch of earth, and an opulent, fleshy texture.
95 Points
This stellar Napa Valley Red Blend marries lush plum and cherry with Malbec's dark berry depth and Petit Verdot's structure and spice. Layered with notes of blackberry, violet, and cocoa, this silky wine finishes with smooth tannins and a whisper of toasted oak. Robust and mouth-filling, with spicy nuances, smooth tannins, firm structure, and a long lingering finish.
94 Points
Aromas of candied apple, lemon peel, and toasted marcona almond. The palate is rich yet finely balanced, offering a creamy texture lifted by bright acidity. Delicate and composed, it finishes with a gentle mineral snap and lingering citrus.
97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
PDF