Picture perfect Sierra Zin, rich, ripe and powerful. Showing strong blackberry, cherry, coffee, cocoa and spice flavors, wrapped in sturdy but soft tannins. High in alcohol, but dry and perfectly balanced, with no overripe notes.
— S.H.
(3/1/2005)
A smooth, rich red wine, without the hefty tannins that can mark this varietal. Beautifully round and ripe, with intense berry flavors. Drinks dry and crisp, and advances an already serious case for Sierra Foothills Barbera.
— S.H.
(2/1/2003)
Concentrated and intense with mountain fruit, this Zin is medium-bodied, with lush, sweet tannins. The myriad of flavors ranges from ripe cherries and pomegranates to mild coffee, leather and herbs. It’s bone dry and not too alcoholic, and a great companion to food.
— S.H.
(6/1/2004)
A very successful Zin, big and brawny and authoritative in its berry and cherry flavors with layers of leather, grilled meat and herbs. A hint of raisins adds nuance but doesn’t detract. Big and lush, a fireplace wine for mid-winter.
— S.H.
(3/1/2005)
A lush, dramatic Zin that’s fully ripe yet avoids any hint of raisins or excessive sugar. The mouth filling flavors of sweet cherry tart, creme de cassis, vanilla and peppery spices are wrapped in smooth tannins, with a bite of acidity. Super high in alcohol, though.
— S.H.
(4/1/2005)
This Zin is full-bodied and rich in fruit, massively packed with blackberry and blueberry jam, chocolate and coffee flavors finished with cassis and currants. It’s bone dry, with a creamy mouthfeel.
— S.H.
(3/1/2006)
Ripe, rich and full-bodied, a wine that excites the palate with a delicious coat of blackberry and chocolate fruit sprinkled with pepper. Dry, with smooth, complex tannins, and Zin’s wild, exuberant nature. —S.H.
— S.H.
(2/1/2003)
Pretty much as good as California Barbera gets, with the smooth, rich tannic texture of a fine Merlot and a good mèlange of berry-cherry, tobacco and herb flavors. Finishes dry and clean, with good acidity.
— S.H.
(6/1/2004)