Zintastic! The Artezin Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel.
Dry Creek Valley (DCV) is one of our favorite spots for Zinfandel, but it's not necessarily a place where you routinely find amazing value on this variety. Since we're all about getting a great deal, in addition to today's Saturday Splurge on a fantastic Zin from DCV you may also want to check out the more affordable Mendocino Zin from the same winemaker.
The 2011 Artezin Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel has an SRP of $25 and is available for as low as $21 (Saturday Splurge). It is 99% Zinfandel and 1% Petite Sirah from Dry Creek Valley, California. 360 cases were produced. Sample submitted for review.
From the bottle:
Artezin is handcrafted from old vine sustainable family vineyards in Sonoma County, where field blend zinfandels were introduced by Italian immigrants more than a century ago. This Zinfandel offers classic varietal aromas of raspberry and boysenberry with notes of spice and black pepper. Grilled meats, rich pastas with red sauces and zesty cheeses are a perfect pairing. Enjoy!
14.2% Alcohol
The 2011 Artezin Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel begins with very pleasant and deep aromas of raspberry, cherry, and cranberry along with nice floral, dried herb and vanilla notes. There's even a touch of bramble. Tasting reveals a very smooth and delicious Zin with a full, lush mouthfeel. Similar fruit to the nose along with a good dose of vanilla, beautiful specks of black pepper and other herbs, cola and a continuing brambly note all are present. Fine tannins and notes of chocolate lead into the dry, long finish. Excellent!
See a listing of local retailers selling this wine here.
Saturday Splurge