Napa Cellars Napa Valley Zinfandel – A Well Rounded Zin

88% Zinfandel and 12% Petite Sirah from Napa Valley, California.

SRP of $22 and available for as low as $16. Sample received courtesy Balzac Communications for review purposes.

From the bottle:

“Deep dark ruby-purple, this classic Napa Valley Zinfandel reveals intense aromas of ripe blackberries, strawberry jam, cinnamon and black pepper spice. The palate follows with juicy, rounded fruit flavors that mingle with layers of warm sweet oak. Our Napa Cellars Zinfandel is a perfect match with grilled and barbequed meats.

14.5% Alcohol”

Zinfandel is quite popular these days. I love the big and bold taste characteristic of many of these wines but a lot of Zin just seems to go overboard. Today’s wine, while definitely still a “big” wine, manages to add some balance. The result is a supremely drinkable and delicious vino for everyone.

The 2009 Napa Cellars Napa Valley Zinfandel begins with a complex and enticing aroma of blackberry, black pepper, strawberry, rhubarb and cinnamon. The wine tastes rich with a silky texture and features juicy mixed berry flavors plus soft tannins. There’s a little oaky spice on the long finish that resolves into lingering berry and chocolate notes. Very good and it gets even better with some air.

For another excellent wine from Napa Cellars also check out the 2009 Merlot: “A Napa Valley Merlot That Will Make You Forget About Over-Priced Pinot Noir.”

See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.

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