2006 Carlisle Zinfandel Rossi Ranch

The 2006 Zinfandel Rossi Ranch, which is a blend of 95% Zinfandel and 5% Alicante Bouschet from a vineyard planted in 1910, is a brilliant wine, dark ruby/purple-tinged with almost head-spinning levels of ground pepper, roasted Provencal herbs, black cherry, raspberry, and even blacker fruits. The wine hits the palate with admirable minerality, full-bodied opulence, and stunning purity and texture. This is a superb Zinfandel that will make a believer of even those in the anti-Zinfandel crowd. It is a beauty that should drink nicely for at least a decade. Sadly, the production is tiny (114 cases). Previously recommended: 2004 Syrah Judge Family Vineyard (95), 2004 Syrah Pelkan Ranch (90), 2004 Three Birds (93), 2004 Two Acres (93), 2004 Zinfandel Carlisle Vineyard (93), 2004 Zinfandel Carlo’s Ranch (91), 2004 Zinfandel Fava Ranch (91), 2004 Zinfandel Rossi Ranch (92), 2004 Zinfandel Tom Feeney Ranch (94). Tel. (707) 566-7700; Fax (707) 566-7200