I don’t expect many, if any, to recognize this producer. Don Albini and his family have a nice little family business in Windsor, CA and source their fruit (perhaps grow it??) in the Russian River Valley.
I was intro’d to this wine several years ago when I was given a wine of the month club gift by my folks and have been on Don’s list since then.
I really enjoy both of his wines - merlot and zinfandel - and it’s really the only ‘no-brainer’ purchase I have every year and pick it up by the case.
On to the wine.
Pop and pour. Little to no sediment in the bottle (just that dusty comet tail of debris at the end).
The wine is a very bright, clear garnet color with a huge nose of red fruits and pepper mingled with subtle asian five spice and a hint of oak.
This is a well structured wine and in a fantastic drinking window providing an enjoyable combination of sensory pleasures culminating in a long, steady finish that makes me happy.
Best of all - it’s 23 bucks a bottle plus shipping.
I hope you seek this out and give it a try.