This is an annual favorite as each vintage seems to have a reliable predictability of quality. The wine is a purple cranberry hue with brambly, wild berry and a touch of plums in the bouquet.
The palate is big with red berries and pushy tannins on a sweet base (relatively speaking; this is not a sweet wine) with an interesting slightly bitter fruit. A little breathing intensifies all of the previous and finishes with big dark fruit. I see this wine for around $15-$18 but I pick it up at Sam's Club for less than $12! It is worth the higher price point so at Sam's prices, it is a great value. Raise a glass!
I agree, but I would add that the aromas are far, far stronger than cheaper Clines or Shenandoah Zins. The finish is almost too harsh, but mellows out a bit after breathing.
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