Aneas Zinfandel Varietal/Style: Zinfandel Origin: Paso Robles, CA fruit Vintage: 1999 Winemaker: Jim Yerkes Rating: 11/20 Retail Price: $24.75

Tasting Notes: No doubt things will improve, but for now we found the Zin to be lackluster; not a robust wine. However, some fruity overtones with hints of vanilla gave us a bit of pleasure. Perhaps the 5 percent injection of Cabernet Sauvignon has tamed the endemic grape a bit too much. (Date tasted: 07/29/02)

Profile: Before Prohibition Los Angeles County produced more wine than any other part of the state or country. Agua Dulce brings a revival of wine grape-processing facilities in the county, due to a recent change in the law. The partners in this 90-acre venture in the Santa Clarita Valley are doing everything right, but they still need some time to bring all the components together. Jim Yerkes, the friendly winemaker, has had a lot of work with all the many programs and varietals. So far mostly contract fruit has been used but now the Southern California vineyard is online.

Address:
9640 Sierra Hwy.
City: Agua Dulce
Phone: 888-401-9463
Website: www.aguadulcevineyards.com