1996 Ravenswood Zinfandel Wood Road/Belloni Vineyard

This highly-extracted, saturated purple-colored wine is a macho Zin in every sense of the word. Not only does it boast nearly 15% alcohol, it possesses explosive richness, and layers of grilled meat, blackberry and cherry liqueur-like flavors that have been heavily spiced, not to mention crammed with glycerin and extract. This knock-out Zinfandel is almost sauvage (as the French would say), but it is oh, so rich and gutsy. It should drink well for 5-7 years. Not surprisingly, Ravenswood has turned out a portfolio of powerful, full-throttle Zinfandels that live up to the winery's motto, "No Wimpy Wines." Tel. (707) 938-1960