I like wine. A lot. No news there.
However, Zinfandel is one varietal which I always have had a difficult time warming up to. I’m not sure what it is that keeps me from really enjoying it, but the reality is that there are only a few which I truly do.
Lucky for me, my new job has introduced me to a bunch of great new people. Even luckier, a new friend and colleague of mine introduced me to a Zinfandel which fits the exact profile of what I DO like in a Zinfandel – the 2006 TEIRA Sonoma County Zinfandel.
It’s a very well balanced zin, with a solid acid backbone, rather than just an overripe fruit and alcohol bomb. I appreciate the fact that it’s a lower alchohol Zin (13.5%) as well. Far too many are 14.5%, 15%, even 16% – and this just leads to a raisiny, jammy, piercing flavor that I HATE about many Zins these days.
Fact is, this wine is everything that I DO enjoy about a Zin. If I had to find one criticism, it would be that the wine is not as viscous of a wine as I usually prefer. This isn’t a bad thing though, and I wouldn’t have done it differently either, as it suits the overall style of this wine perfectly. It’s truly a wine that can and should be enjoyed with food – burgers, pizza, ribs, or in our case – charcoal grilled chicken.
Tasting Notes:
- Nose is full of white pepper, tea, and subtle baking spices.
- The color is lighter and leaner than most Zins. Seems like something you’d see on a wine with a few more years of aging.
- As it opens up, the nose evolves almost into a warm, flourless chocolate cake and raspberry sauce. Sounds silly, but it’s true!
- A floral note comes thru as the wine opens as well – violets and black cherries.
- Not overpowering or obnoxious…solid deep, rich berry fruit and refined tannic structure.
- The acidic backbone keeps this wine in check, and doesn’t let it get out of control.
- Plenty of raspberries, blackberries, and black cherries permeate this wine – lots to love!
David,
Welcome back to the left coast! I stumbled onto your post this evening while cleaning up some email and, wait for it, enjoying a glass of wine. I, like you, enjoy wine…a lot! The difference between us, however, is that I don’t know anything aboout it. When I go to buy it, I am literally pursuaded more by the packaging (and price) then anything else. I know I like reds more than I like whites. That said I want a red that drinks more like a white. WTF?? I think what I am saying is that I am in “flavor” of an easy drinking wine that is less viscous but has a bold flavor . Lately, I seem to gravivtate towards cabs, syrah, tempranilo and chianti. Really couldn’t even tell you their names. But the vast majority come from Napa and Paso Robles. Any suggestion for an easy drinking red wine (that wouldn’t be offended by a couple chunks of ice)? And don’t say Mad Dog!
Hope you’re well!
Edan
I love your descriptions. They make me want to run out, buy this, and then not share it with anyone.
Which is not the best idea. But still.
Hope being on the left coast means more posts!