A blend of 72% Zinfandel, 12% Carignane, 12% Petite Sirah, 2% Syrah, 1% Grenache, and 1% Alicante Bouchet from seven vineyards in Sonoma County. Deep and rich blackberry, plum, and cherry flavors and aromas. Young, but quite drinkable now. Probably not a wine for the cellar, but over the next three or four years it should be perfect for steaks, barbecue, roast chicken, and the like. Grade: B+
I would love to talk to Paul Draper about the decision to include such minuscule amounts of Syrah, Grenache, and Alicante Bouchet. Was it just that they had some left over or does he really think those minor additions made a significant difference? Towards that end, it would be fascinating to taste a blend that had omitted them to compare it to this bottle.
