Zinfandel Favorites

Although America's first Zinfandel plantings are traced to Long Island, as Californians our tasting panel members like to embrace Zinfandel as their own. A favorite grape among our ranks, it is difficult to limit our favorites to just five.

Howell Mountain Old Vine
Good things come from this Zinfandel producer but Howell Mountain's Old Vine is a standout even among their own wines. Think intense cherry flavors and a hint of chocolate.

Try it with: Mole chicken or beef tamales

A. Rafanelli
The quintessential California Zin, Rafanelli combines jam and pepper with a solid, tannic structure. A wine to drink now or hold back, its bright cherry flavors shine through for years.

Try it with: Creamy pasta, pounded veal and sundried tomato focaccia

Sineann Old Vine
Who would have thought that one of America's finest Zins would come from predominately cold-climate Oregon? Blended from Columbia Valley fruit, this wine offers an endless medley of red berries, dusty earth, white pepper and caramel oak to draw out the finish.

Try it with: A sunset in the mountains

Bonny Doon Cardial Zin
Like Old Faithful, Bonny Doon's wines are always available and at the right price. A great value-for-money Zin, we like its backbone of tannins and ripe berry nose.

Try it with: Burritos, burgers and BBQ ribs

Ridge
We would like to take the opportunity to pay homage to one of America's Zinfandel leaders. From their Lytton Station to Lytton Springs, Ridge has set the benchmark for quality Zin from the under $20 to the premium range.

Try it with: Every family gathering from backyard BBQ's to Holiday dinners

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