Dramatic in the power and intensity of its ripe brambly, briary berry flavors, with touches of earth, tobacco and sweet ground spices. Despite the flamboyance, remains balanced and controlled. Defines these ancient Foothills Zins.
— S.H.
(2/1/2005)
Lovely nose, with coconut and hazelnut scents augmenting the cherry/berry fruit. Not an ordinairy set of scents and flavors, but enticing and distinctive. The fruit is intense and perfumed, and the accents of coconut seem just right.
— P.G.
(3/1/2001)
From old head-pruned vines, a big, kick-butt Zin crammed with jammy wild berry and spicy flavors. Dry and balanced, very long in the finish, rich and bold.
— S.H.
(2/1/2005)
The chocolate family bought the vineyard in 1900. The wine is made in open-top fermenters, and the fruit is sweet and flavorful, with a pleasing intensity. Pretty and seductive style, leading to a cocoa-infused finish with soft tannins. Distinctive and appealing.
— P.G.
(3/1/2002)
Shows good varietal character in its blackberry-cassis aromas; there’s also a strong note of charred, smoky oak. Tastes ripe and sweet, with rich, extracted blackberry flavors, modulated tannins and moderate alcohol. Dry and elegant, with a sweet finish.
— S.H.
(8/1/2001)
Dark, thick with tannins, a sturdy wine with plenty of fleshy blackberry and coffee flavors. Bone dry, and can probably age for a few years.
— S.H.
(2/1/2005)