2005 Buchignani Ranch Zinfandel ** from 44 barrels of 96% zinfandel with 4% carignane from the same "small planting of old-vine zinfandel on the Buchignani Ranch on Dutcher Creek Road in the hills on the far western edge of the Alexander Valley appellation." Good notes of frozen dried strawberry and whey.  MORE >>

Dry Creek Valley has become a Mecca of sorts for those seeking world class zinfandel. And while I don't adhere to the particularly strident belief among certain producers and connoisseurs that Dry Creek Valley produces the "gestalt" of zinfandel , there is no question it produces some of the finest. on the finish. Caveat emptor. MORE >>

always appreciated wine, but it was a 1995 Pagani Ranch Zinfandel that hooked me when I was working as a stock boy in a fancy wine and cheese shop during college. The rationale is that Ridge wants to focus exclusively on cabernet, chardonnay, and zinfandel. Wooden crosses line the road, where, I presume, luckless travelers have fallen. MORE >>

This week I had a chance to attend a tasting of 12 Zinfandels hosted by Greg Dal Piaz at the Snooth offices. 2005 Berryessa Gap Yolo County 15.8% $16 Smoked meats again, dishwater, black and white pepper, ripe cherries jolly rancher, chemical aftertaste, harsh wood. 2006 Simi Sonoma County 13.5% $20 Not too much happening here. MORE >>

The second Advanced Tasting Program release of 2009 is the 2005 Buchignani Ranch Zinfandel ** From 44 barrels of 96% zinfandel and 4% carignane from the same vineyard, "This wine comes from a small planting of old-vine zinfandel on the Buchignani Ranch on Dutcher Creek Road in the hills on the far western edge of the Alexander Valley appellation. MORE >>