CALIFORNIA
ZINFANDEL
94 Baca 2019 Double Dutch Dusi Vineyard Zinfandel (Paso Robles). This is a hedonistic, playful and yet deeply layered style of Zinfandel. Lighter in the glass, the bottling pops with aromas of strawberry glaze, light cinnamon, cherry compote and crème brûlée on the nose. It’s rich and generous on the palate, where light caramel flavors are drizzled across the lively red fruits. Editors’ Choice. —M.K.
abv: 15% Price: $35
94 Jeff Cohn 2018 Rinaldi Vineyard Zinfandel (Fiddletown). This deep and full-bodied wine made from organic grapes embodies complexity and nuance while also delivering mouthfilling ripe fruit flavors. Light woodsmoke, white-pepper and pine-forest aromas lead to rich blackberry, black-plum and cherry flavors that are lightly dusted with cinnamon, vanilla and clove notes. Editors’ Choice. —J.G.
abv: 15.4% Price: $55
94 Kehret 2018 Zinfandel (Amador County). For full review see page 120. Cellar Selection.
abv: 14.8% Price: $34
Unlike its estate-driven wines, this reserve is made from a trio of partner vineyards and includes 12% Petite Sirah—an homage to the growers themselves. Dark and brooding in style, it shows thick
