Maker: Buehler Vineyards, St. Helena, California, USA
Grape: Zinfandel
Style: Red
Region: Napa Valley AVA, Napa County, California, USA
Vintage: 2009
ABV: 14.5%
Appearance: Dark, deep plum.
Nose: Black currant, oak, blueberry jam, whiff of smoke.
On the palate: Fruity, strawberry. Lightly sweet, a bit fleshy.
Finish: slightly tart, leather, a hint of oak smoke.
Parting Words: At its best, California Zinfindel is something like this. It has the finesse and complexity of a red Burgundy and the drinkability of a Côtes du Rhône. This is a fairly complex, but easy-going wine, a bit surprising for something with its ABV percentage. It goes well with food but its more subtle notes might get lost in the shuffle. Not much else to say, but Buehler Zin comes recommended.