Some neighbors came by to split some chili with us and we opened some fruity Zins to make the meal a little special… neither rocked my world, but they were both emptied and the chili and the fire made up for any lack of wine pizzazz.
2006 Bella Vineyards Zinfandel Big River Ranch- USA, California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley (1/11/2011)
All the classic Zinfandel aromas, but with a bitter finish that, while not unpleasant, was distinctive and seems to be a “trademark” of Bella. Dark berries reign here, with some rustic tannins still there to get your attention. Drink now – this is unlikely to improve with time (88 pts.)
2007 Turley Zinfandel Mead Ranch- USA, California, Napa Valley, Atlas Peak (1/11/2011)
While I have loved the 2008 Turleys, this is one of those that deserves the criticism the anti Turley-ites throw around – alcoholic, bitter, treacly, and lacking the acidity and pepper that makes Zin so much fun. This is a good wine, but not a great wine. Drinkable, but neither fun nor profound. Drink now, preferably with spicy food to counter the lack of spice in the wine. (82 pts.)
I thought something big might fit such a cold and snowy night, so I had a crappy Aussie shiraz (d’Arenberg Laughing Magpie), it was a bloody meaty mess. The Manhattan before that though was excellent (Russell’s Reserve Rye). The bourbon and rye are definitely winning the battle of the snowpocalypse at my house.
