After last week’s look at value-oriented Zinfandel, I was pretty excited to jump into and taste some higher end wines. I love Zinfandel’s many iterations. From the Claret styles of yore to the fruit bombs that have made bold headlines and big points over the past decade, there is a great variety of styles well suited to many cuisines. Of course, many people instinctively pair Zinfandel with barbecue. That is a great a pairing, but with so many of these wines you really can do so much more.
Zinfandel has become so much more than a barbecue wine. In truth, you would be hard pressed to find better values at this price point in the domestic market; only one reason why I think Zinfandel is truly America’s greatest grape. The unique flavor profile, drinkability and freshness of fruit in the best wines are immensely appealing to me, but they also allow for great Zins to be served with so many great dishes or on their own. I would not hesitate to pair any of the top wines here with grilled meats, naturally, but I can see them also working spectacularly well with a more refined dinner of duck or game birds. Zinfandel is growing up folks, so don’t be afraid to give it its due!
Photo courtesy of shutterstock images

Comments
Not one from Paso Robles area??
Aug 07, 2012 at 4:35 PM
My two (three) faves didn't make it, either... From Michael David - Earthquake and Seven Deadly Zins. And a new favorite - Edmead. That last one was a complete surprise.
Aug 07, 2012 at 7:03 PM
Krystek
I agree with comment about Paso Robles
Aug 07, 2012 at 8:34 PM
I have had 4 of those wines and absolutely agree that they are excellent. I just have to say you need to try the 2010 Dashe (both) with grilled Lamb, it doesn't get any better!
Aug 08, 2012 at 12:13 AM
Glad to see that Frank Family made it in there. Drank a bottle last week and loved it! Excellent wine!
Aug 08, 2012 at 11:39 AM
I haven't had any of these wines, some great zins I have had are Talty, Joseph Swan, and Cosentino. Seghesio hasn't been mentioned in the zin series,despite having two wines in the WS top 20 or so the last few years. These lists only prove GDP's basic point that there is a lot of very good Zinfandel being made, eh?
Aug 09, 2012 at 8:20 AM
Seghesio and Frog's Leap....
Aug 10, 2012 at 2:20 PM
poon
Don't forget Sausal and Nalle
Aug 12, 2012 at 2:25 PM
van
Totally agree with you, Zinfandel is the best wine I have ever tasted. Among red wines, of course
____________
http://1loseweightfast.com/appetite...
Aug 14, 2012 at 8:56 AM
Hendry and Turley
Sep 07, 2012 at 1:32 AM
Oh, I'm crying...This wine is so delicious, but I can't drink it 'cause I keep to the diet
...damn
http://www.shoppharmacycounter.com/
Apr 27, 2013 at 2:08 AM
Add a Comment
Submit
Edit Confirm