Tasting: Zinfandel

 Name: Rombauer Vineyard Zinfandel 

Variety: Zinfandel

Region: Napa Valley

Country: USA (California)

Vintage: 2019

Price: $35

Winery Review: When poured, our classic California Zinfandel is a purple-ruby color with a bright crimson hue. On the nose, there are concentrated aromas of dried cherries that meld with warm vanilla, mocha, and mulling spices. Lush flavors of ripe plum and raspberry jam flood the palate, followed by touches of dark chocolate in the background. Subtle and round tannins add length for a fresh and enticing finish. 

Wine Folly: - "The flavors in Zinfandel range depending on how ripe the grapes are. Typically, on the nose you’ll find juicy red berry flavors such as strawberry or raspberry in wines from cooler areas. For wines made in warmer climates, flavors turn to deeper black fruits. There is always a rich baking spice and underlying peppery note. On the palate, expect a full bodied, lush and mouth-filling wine, usually with elevated alcohol (14%+ ABV). On high quality Zinfandel, expect tannins to be high. (Remember styles vary by producer!)" - Page 127

My Review: I have heard many mixed feelings about zinfandel. Not only Zinfandels but professor Boyer mentions California (Napa Valley especially) as a huge Zinfandel hub, especially their take on Zinfandel (White Zin). I have liked more earthy, tannic, and deep fruity flavors so far in my red wine tasting experience so I thought why not knock out two birds with one stone and try a Zinfandel and a wine from Napa Valley. SO here we are. Overall, I thought it was an average wine. Maybe it would be profoundly different when pairing with food. But, it was not as smooth since it had a little heat being almost 16%. I did get very dark fruity flavors such as cherries, plum, and raspberries. I liked its fruit forward taste but I am saddened I did not get a very vanilla or oaky type finish that it promised to deliver.