California Zinfandels are often field blends (in the vineyard a number of different types of grapes are grown) which means they can be inconsistent. Add to that they are heavily crafted and they can really vary. The best thing is to find one you like. If you ever want to try a pure Zinfandel, try an Italian Primitivo which is 100% Zinfandel. By the way, I am talking about Red Zinfandels, not the rose ones.
Ravenswood has a dizzying number of Zinfandels. This one out of the bottle is a deep burgundy color. The bouquet is rich and complex. On first taste the wine is dominated by spiciness. There is a whole lot of pepper going on here. There is a slight jammyness and some strawberry flavors. After a bit of breathing the spiciness dies down to allow you to taste some of the fruit in this wine but it is still largely masked. Oak is well under control. The finish is medium with it lingering nicely. I suspect this wine is still a little to young to appreciate it. The tannins are there but not overwhelming. Overall this is a good but not stellar Zinf. I would give it an 88 or so … I paired it with an italian sausage and it went well …
From winecurrent.com:
Ravenswood Vintners Blend Zinfandel 2006 California. 13.5% alcohol (Previously reviewed in winecurrent) If it has been a couple of years since you have tasted this wine you will be happy to re-discover it. Strawberry pie and jam aromas leap out of the glass with cinnamon spice and a healthy dose of vanilla and milk chocolate. On the palate it has juicy before persistent lingering tannin provides plenty of structure. This is medium in body not nearly as heavy as some Californian Zinfandels which will make it more versatile at your table. Grilled lamb burgers would be great. (MT) (359257) $17.95 Featured 5/23/2009. 4.5/5 stars
