2013 Carlisle Zinfandel Sonoma County

Dark stone fruits, leather, game, smoke and tobacco are some of the notes that emerge from the 2013 Zinfandel (Sonoma County). Sweet spices, violets and smoke add nuance on the finish. The fruit is decidedly ripe, flashy and exuberant. This is one of the vest best values in California wine readers will come across. It is that simple. Vineyard sites include Papera, Pagani and San Lorenzo, which is an Alexander Valley, all planted between 1881 and 1932. It goes without saying, but this is simply a stunning bottle of wine for the money.

From a cross-section of Sonoma County, the medium to full-bodied 2013 Zinfandel Sonoma offers delicious red and black fruit, herb and barbecue smoke characteristics as well as a lush, easygoing mouthfeel. Sporting 15% natural alcohol, it comes from old-vine vineyards planted between 1888 and 1934. Drink now-2020.