Zinfandel tasting – Blind.

Zinfandel tasting – Blind. – Episode #583

November 24, 2008

Gary Vaynerchuk is sky high after a huge Jets wine and his beard is getting thicker and thicker as he tries 6 California Zinfandels BLIND right before Thanksgiving.

Having trouble viewing this video? Try the Quicktime version.

Comments on this episode(231) Leave a comment ›

“Used to go to the ZAP at Fort Mason when I lived up in the Bay Area. …” by G
“Gary,
I’m just getting into wine, for I have only been able to legall…” by Brandon
View all 231 ›

Wines tasted in this episode:

2006 Sebastiani Dry Creek ZinfandelSonoma Red Zinfandel
Coppola Diamond ZinfandelOther California Red Zinfandel
2005 Thomas Henry ZinfandelSonoma Red Zinfandel
2006 Outpost Zinfandel Howell MountainNapa Red Zinfandel
2006 Rosenblum Richard Sauret ZinfandelOther California Red Zinfandel
2006 Ravenswood Napa ZinfandelNapa Red Zinfandel

Not in this episode

2006 Neyers Zinfandel High Valley.

Links mentioned in today’s episode.

231 Responses

November 24, 2008

David Dickinson
Whew Hoo! First. Love the Zins!
November 24, 2008

purplejuicebruce
Yes love the Zins
November 24, 2008

Toni
Whii especially Croatian ones. Plavac mali.
November 24, 2008

Phil G
Zins and Beards – I can’t wait!
November 24, 2008

Withnail
Looks like a great ep – will check out later tonight.
November 24, 2008

Sammy S
Woo hoo ……top 10
November 24, 2008

EricB
sweet! blind zin, this should be good!
November 24, 2008

Top 10 Baby!
Wow my first top 10!
November 24, 2008

Lawn
Dude, I will buy wine that smells like “yard” all day long! Gimme some grass wine! LOL
–the lawn guy
November 24, 2008

Dano
Gary,
Searched for Morgon.
Got nothing. How bout it.
Have enjoyed Louis Latour and Joseph Drouhin. Any recommendations?
Could work well for Thanksgiving.
November 24, 2008

purplejuicebruce
QOTD… Really loved Runquest’s “Z” and Opolo Mtn. Zin and bad ones are everywhere.
November 24, 2008

Charles Delisle
Best Zin Chateau Potelle .
November 24, 2008

Dr T in NC
I have never really been impressed by a Zin. Give me a fruity Plavic Mali on one end or a Petite Sirah on the other over a Zin any day.
November 24, 2008

Kevin K
QOTD: I haven’t had a good one in a while. Most of my “go-to” Zin’s seem over oaked. I’m not sure if it is a sign of my changing palate or a sad turn in wine making.
November 24, 2008

AbsolutLahmi
Man – brutal show. Still enjoyed it a lot.

QOTD: I had a RIDGE Zinfandel a couple of years ago that was VERY enjoyable, don’t remember the vintage. I also think Bogle’s old vine Zin is actually very decent for the price, has a strange ‘restraint’ to it, simple but not fake!

Bad Zinfandel? Green Groves was as ‘fake’ as it gets, felt like i was chewing on a stale fruit cake. Zin used to be my favorite for a long time, but now it’s fallen off my radar..
November 24, 2008

Glenn P
Yikes! Sorry it was such a suck bomb today. That’s ok, man- there are good Zin’s out there.

QOTD:
Rocked- Bogle Phantom, Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma ‘07, Rosenblum Zinfandel Harris Kratka ‘05

Sucked- Clos du Bois Zinfandel ‘05
November 24, 2008

Edward Salonia
Nice job with the price ranges GV.
November 24, 2008

MattieJ
I started this comment before the end of the show… but…Can you imagine the scores if the Jets lost

QOTD: Haven’t had a zin that has really left an impression…. I can’t believe you had six with nobody scoring 90… Insane… hopefully the Zin from the TG pack will make up for it..
November 24, 2008

Toni
Answer to the question of the day:

Wine called Postup from the slopes of island Pelješac in Croatia (Dinga? wine cellar). It’s made from grape called Plavac Mali, which is genetically a descendant of Zinfandel and a cross with Dobri?i? grape. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plavac_Mali)
This is in my opinion one of the highest rating Plavac Mali wines from Croatia and a godly nectar that leaves a mark on your tongue forever. Period.

Also happy to say we have a 400 litre batch of Plavac Mali / Plavac Veliki combo in the making in Vodice near Šibenik. My father-in-law is going to Dalmatia tomorrow to check out the progress. I expect it to be nothing short of… well… mine That’s why I am listing it.
November 24, 2008

TLR
QOTD segeshio zinfandel and David Bruce Zin’s have been great !!!! I had a Rosenbloom that was like candy that was a major pass!

LOVE THE BLIND TASTING!
November 24, 2008

Redmeat
QOTD…..

Gamba Zinfandel Old Vine Moratto Vineyard 2006 ~~blew me away(the Regular Russian River was great as well)

Barefoot Zinfandel~~Blew(had a friend try to sneak it in on me…)not good…but would have to say many newcomers to red wines would like it…
November 24, 2008

Jay Campbell
QOTD: I’ve actually had two really good ones lately and nothing else.

2006 Four Vines Maverick Zinfandel
2005 Turley Juvenile Zin

Two very different styles but both were great.
November 24, 2008

Kirk (slave2thevine)
QOTD: Scott Harvey Old Vine Reserve $27 ROCKED my life…it is the BEST Zin I have ever had and is a MUST try…..I was a little dissapointed with the 2007 Seghesio
November 24, 2008

sam
Boo-hoo:(

I haven’t been drinking much Zin. and this show did not inspire me to…

I remember enjoying the ‘05 Ravenwood…Whatever happened!

Keep smiling!
November 24, 2008

lfeeney
Nice show Mr. V. Liked the suspense.
November 24, 2008

Brad G
I am not much of a Zin fan but would be interested in your suggestions for a cab drinker.
November 24, 2008

Mark S.
QOTD – 3 good ones: Elyse Morisoli Vineyard ($31), Elyse Couzins (50/50 Zin and Primitivo, $26), Ridge Lytton Springs ($30)

the bad: Edmeades ($11)
November 24, 2008

ex-lurkdawg
zin I’ve liked recently: one of Ridge’s (I forget which one)
zin I didn’t like: the last 4 Vines Biker I had. I usually like their wines quite a bit and I thought that was the case with this one when I first tasted it. Then I tried it blind in a lineup of zinfandels and really didn’t like it. I think I’ll always be trying to reduce the effects of those pesky pre-conceived notions.
Thanks for another great show. I’d like it if I could somehow know which wine was which as you gave your tasting notes instead of finding out at the end.
November 24, 2008

Andy
Great ep G ……. Love the Zins … try the Dry Creek Zins … MMmmm
QOTD——– Roshambo —- The Reverend Zin 2005
The worst was a Cali Zin I think it was a Beringer Zin
November 24, 2008

Ray Barnes
First of all Gary, congrats on the superb Jets performance. Keeping in mind your prediction, it must feel nice to be pleasantly dissapointed. And to those who may scoff at the very real possibility of the Jets winning the whole enchilada, it is worth remembering the St. Louis Rams also had a 4-12 record the year before they became the greatest show on turf. But…the Jets have to stay healthy, or the Pats can still catch them.

As with the last blind show, it seems you know how to separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff. With hindsight knowledge, I think there should have been at least one or two more $35-40+ priced wines in the tasting. If there is one lesson to be learned here, it is to avoid the cheap Zin like the bubonic plague.

QOTD – The only one I’ve had in the last 12 months is the Ridge Geyserville, which was excellent.
November 24, 2008

David M Roberts
For some odd reason, I now want to try the Thomas Henry. Reverse effect action at play! Like wanting to experience a trainwreck all on my own, I must go out and have a glass of that rot-gut.
November 24, 2008

Dominus
“Best smelling fart in the room!” A great analogy but unfortunately the wines tonight tried to attain that moniker.

I loved this show but was hoping to see a review of the Haywood Los Chamizal which rocks my world every time I try it. Rocky Terrace is great juice too.

QOTD: I’m having the Neyers as I watch your show though the Haywood is my fav Zin hands down. Worst? I would have to say I cannot remember any bad ones since I buy only the ones you recommend. I had the Ridge Geyserville on vacation a few months back which was amazing.

Congrats to the Jets!

P.S. What are you drinking on Thanksgiving?

Cheers and Go Colts!
November 24, 2008

Marc-China Wine Tours
QOTD: Coturri Vineyards Zin…awesome! All the other Zins I’ve tried…meh.
November 24, 2008

Manual
QOTD : Best recently would be a tie between the 2003 Caparone from Paso Robles (especially on the second night of being opened) and the 2005 Nalle from Dry Creek in Sonoma. The least favorite was a Zin based wine, The Clayhouse Adobe Red. The wine was a mess.
November 24, 2008

Bill
Love um blind. GJ GV.

qotd: Big Turley fan. Had a Turley Old Vines recently, and it was very nice. Great with some nice burgers.

The worst Zin I ever had was produced by Bogle. It tasted like, not exactly gasoline, but some other sort of petroleum product. Awful crap.
November 24, 2008

Little Jonny H
I feel like I’ve just witnessed MJ at the top of his game against my Cavaliers or the Utah Jazz. That was a RIDICULOUS performance. I can’t wait to see what you can do during the next blind tasting. I know that the purpose of this format is not to prove your palate’s legitimacy, but it is fun to watch when you’re on fire like that! It will be just as fun the day when you’re way off (still waiting for that to happen…)!!!

QOTD: Uh… not drinking a lot of Zin. Last one I had was Ravenswood Lodi 2005, and it was fantastic! -funny that you mention it on the show today
November 24, 2008

Thiago
JETS 34!!!!

titans 13

HELLO SUPERBOWL!!!!!!

Congrats on the Blind Monday, never tried a Zin, they’re not so easy to find here where I live…

Cheers from South America!

Thiago from Brazil
November 24, 2008

BobbyTiger
Gary. It was the wines that was disappointing, not the show.
Never-the-less, it was fun to watch, and to see you, yet again, spot on.
Don’t do much Zin. Usually drink Ravenswood or Gnarley Head. I prefer to set my sights low.
November 24, 2008

thecobalt9
QOTD – best zin ive had recently was the 2005 Turley grist vineyards zin, worst was a cline old vines zin, not sure, the vintage, but just bad, fake, junk.
November 24, 2008

J Crazy
I’m a huge fan of Cali Zin but was also disappointed at some of the wines at the Grand California Wine Tasting I went to in Tokyo a few weeks ago. I had the Coppola and wasn’t impressed. I have to say that I haven’t had a Cali Zin that knocked me out lately. I guess I just have to drink more.
November 24, 2008

jason carey
Gary i love..
RRV zin is under rated.. Harvest Moon from the RRV and Dashe Cellars. I love the zins with higer acidity.. I also love Quivira. and of course Ridge. Also like the Ravenswood Teldeschi vineyard 2005

Disagree abut the Rosenblum. to me its a 83 pointer. I think their wines are over extracted latey however my GF loves them so go figure, I must say that to me they all taste like port, and if I want port I will buy port instead of zin

The worst zin recently was a Mazzoco way too over the top.. again
November 24, 2008

Mrbuzz
You nailed the pepper in the Outpost Zin…but personally believe the wine was WAY too young to show its true quality. For God-sakes…the wine was just shipped out from the Winery…. Outpost is a monster(surprised you didn’t comment on the 16.2% alc??)and needs a year or so to calm down. NEVER have thought of these wines as “over oaked”?? LOVE the pepper though!!

Sorry that you had such a downer in this tasting…….Zins blind can be an amazing experience! Maybe a plate of bbq ribs on the side would have made it better!!
November 24, 2008

KW
QOTD: Seghesio Old Vines 2001 – great wine with a little age.
Too many cheap Zins under $15 – disappointing.
November 24, 2008

Leonard
It always appears that with the blind tasting, the scores are a little lower. Just an observation. Maybe I am not remembering accurately, but it seems so.

QOTD:

The best I have tasted so far is the Layer Cake Primitivo 2006 from Italy. Not sure what the worst is. I forget about them.
November 24, 2008

Geoff
QOTD: the ‘92 Renwood Grand Pere (Zinfandel) ranks up there with the ‘92 Sean Thackeray Orion (Syrah?) as one of the best bottles I have ever had. There have been many disappointing Zins, like the ‘91 Ridge Lytton Springs which tasted like distilled Oak, but nothing could possibly be as bad as …. well, as I’m writing this I thought of another … the few I have tried by Coturri which are simultaneously sweet and vinegar-y and some late nineties Spenker Lodi which was sweet, yet vinegar-y, with burnt rubber-y, musky, sweaty animal-like nasty odors. Just absolutely horrid bovine excrement.
November 24, 2008

Glen,....winecrazy.com
Gary Gary Gary…!!!!!

Gotta love the wall of wine in the background. Everyone should have one of those!

QOTD: Turley is always in my top 5 Fav’s…..lol

Worst zin…hmmmm….I think it has to be…..drum roll please…Martinelli Jack Ass….which was corked and I had to send it back to where I bought it from….lol. I thought I got it from Dennis but I went back into my file cabinet and found I got it from J. Buckley…lol
November 24, 2008

Timinspokane
I LOVE KILLER ZINS!!!!!!! and I hate cheap, goopy, syrupy ones…. Great calls on the wines, Gary V! I have had a few of those, and I am not a fan…

QOTD – I will give you three zins that continually rock my world – two for the wine itself, and one for the price point. The ROCKERS are just about any vintage of Bella Vineyards Lily Hill Estate zin (Dry Creek Valley), retails at $38, which is typically blended with about 10% petit syrah. It is a big boy, but with enough acidity and balance to cut through the massive fruit! The second ROCKER is the Forgeron Cellars 2005 or 2006 (both killer) Walla Walla zinfandel, which retails at about $30. This wine shows that funky, barnyardy, earthy, terroir-driven Walla Walla thang, but also with fabulous fruit (dark cherry, plum, and a touch of cranberry shining through), made in a more European claret style. It isn’t your typical zin, but what a fabulous, interesting play on a typically abused varietal! I also like, especially for the price, the Brassfield 2006 Round Mountain zin. I buy it on sale at my local grocery store for about $16. It is a more straight ahead zin, but not too jammy or goopy. It too has great acids and is simply a nice drinking zin for the money.

The last one I absolutely HATED was the Ravenswood Vinters Cuvee. I don’t remember the number after it, but it totally sucked. It tasted like cough syrup and prune juice blended with a little Castrol 10W40 motor oil blended in, topped with a fur ball hocked up three days ago from my 13 year old cat… It sucked.

Bon Appetit!
November 24, 2008

David
Another great show. I have not had many Zins and none worth remembering so no QOTD answer here. Blind Mondays sounds like a really great thing to do. Takes the brand out of it, which is quite interesting given how big you are on personal brand. Makes a good show.
November 24, 2008

KenP
One of the finest episodes I’ve ever seen of WLTV.
With an increasingly long series of brilliant WLTV eps this one deserves attention because of its brutal honesty. GV at work. He has one of the finest palates in the biz. Amply on display here. Immediate. Gripping.
And today, as a bonus, he was funny as hell. His dry humor made me laugh repeatedly.

Superb work, GV.
November 24, 2008

Michael Schoonmaker
I just can’t kick my college-made association of zinfandels with Arbor Mist / Box-O wine. Regardless, I do feel bad that you couldn’t kick that stereotype of mine. Oh well.

You look so crushed! I hope the rest of your week goes better!
November 24, 2008

morgan
LOVE the blind Mondays Gary…i think it’s great to see you taste without knowing the brand because that’s just something that will always play a role in ratings, no matter how little bias you have!

qotd – haven’t had any, was hoping to pick up a couple of recommendations by watching the show…needless to say, i won’t be dropping any bones on any of those vinos…
November 24, 2008

drydrew
QOTD – best zin ive had recently was my very own 2007
November 24, 2008

WineWoman
QOTD: Klinker Brick Zin, The Pines “1852″ Washington State–similar to the Neyers. I also enjoy Brown and Chiarello Zin. There was a Coturri Zin that was very port-like that I enjoyed, but the next vintage was horrible. It tasted cooked and disjointed. Unfortunately I bought 3 or 4 bottles, not realizing the vintage substitution. They were all terrible.
November 24, 2008

Loy V
You really don’t need to be apologetic most Zinfandels under $20 usually are not worth the effort. Overall, it is hard to find any that rate over 90 and don’t cost an arm and a leg. Good quality Zins are hard to find. Maybe winemakers think if people will drink white Zinfandel they will drink anything.

Qoth: Carlisle is tasty and reasonable, while Ridge always has a good selection of blends. My biggest disappointment is the over priced Martinelli and Turley Zins.
November 24, 2008

Slushpuppy
Brother Gary: You definitely have your Mo-Jo working again! I’m glad the Jets knocked off TN; however, I feel that will also help them to focus. The question is, can Favre maintain His focus, or will he fall apart down the stretch. Good luck, and smell it first!
November 24, 2008

@Direstraits94
My favorite zin is The Prisoner from Orin Swift. Limited production, hard to get.
November 24, 2008

DF
QOTD: The last really good Zin/Zin blend I had was a Zaca Mesa Cuvee Z.
November 24, 2008

manonthemoon
Nice show, too bad nothing really showed well.

QOTD: Sineann Old Vine from Oregon/Washington really did it for me at a tasting recently. Haven’t really been turned off by many here lately, but then again I haven’t really been trying that many other than ones from my cellar.
November 24, 2008

Aaron
QOTD: Best Zin I have had would have to be either the Preston of Dry Creek Old Vine or the Viansa Zin. Both were fantastic. If you can find the Preston in particular, you should find good value. Laura Zahtila’s Napa Zin is excellent as well. And the Scott Harvey InZinerator; expected it to be gimmicky, but it was exceptional; a terrific Zin/Barbera blend.

Speaking of gimmicky, avoid any other Zin with a pun in the name – 7 Deadly Zins, Zinfatuation, etc. These kitschy wines are the reason I almost skipped on the Scott Harvey; glad I didn’t.
November 24, 2008

Adam B
The 05′ Hartford Highwire Zin really impressed me on my last tasting day trip. In fact it’s going to be accompanying Thanksgiving dinner. I can’t really recall the last zin I had that was just a total disappointment. May have been a Davis Bynum a few years back… no idea the vintage – maybe an 03 or 02, but I remember tasting at the winery and not being impressed by any of their zins.
November 24, 2008

Casey
I had the 7 Deadly Zins, a Cali blend that was actually pretty interesting. Would Recomend.
November 24, 2008

elmattador
qotd: I had the 2007 Seghesio zin that got top 10 in the spectator. They were dead on! It was spectacular. Best zin i’ve had in a very long time. Worst zin I ever had was Woodbridge zin that someone brought to a party. WOW was that bad!

Better luck next time on the blind. Love the format. How about a Spanish blind with you guessing the regions. Or do the same with Italian or French.
November 24, 2008

ncwinetravels
gary,

nice show. blind tasting tells the true story…zins are hit or miss most of the time anyway.
best regards,
ncwt.
November 24, 2008

T.K.
GV, enjoyed the show but was disappointed like yourself with the quality. I was given a bottle of the inaugural release Maples Vineyard 2006 Zinfandel. I am told that it is the only Zinfandel Tom & Tina Maples will do as the subsequent vintages will be a Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Carignane blend . . . a BIG wine.

The 2005 Zahltila Dry Creek Zinfandel is also a nice wine for the money.
November 24, 2008

Neil
QOTD:
Best- http://corkd.com/wine/view/57192-Sin_Zin_2006_Zinfandel
Worst- http://corkd.com/wine/view/58225-Camelot_2002_Zinfandel

This is what I am drinking now-
http://corkd.com/wine/view/64458-Ventisquero_Reserva_2006_Carm_n_re

I love this wine, especially for $10.
November 24, 2008

Alaska1
QOTD: Love Love Love ZIN!!!

Best Zin to date? Turley 05′ Cedarman Or Rosenblum 01′ Rustridge

Worst Zin to date? Black mountain Zin 05 ( Got it at Trader Joe’s)$5.80 Should have expected that.
November 24, 2008

RANDI
GARY!!
Still so luvn that facial hair!!

QOTD: Rocked the boat!! TURLEY
QOTD: Sunk the boat!! Bogle
November 24, 2008

Tim
worst zin to date: 7 Deadly zins. I know a lot of people love it, but i have no idea what the hype is about.

best recent zin: Robert Biale Black Chicken Ranch, small production but try to get your hands on some Biale stuff.
November 24, 2008

amgryger
Great episode with the blind tasting.

QOTD: I don’t remember, I haven’t had a zinfandel in a really long time.
November 24, 2008

Farley
Gary,

Nice show today – too bad the results were not better. Keep calling them like you see them.

QOTD – Rombauer and Ridge Lytton Springs are two Zins I enjoy.
November 24, 2008

DirtWineKen
Blind tastings rock as a great playing-field leveler!
QOTD: My favorite zin recently was a Steele 2005 Catfish Vinyard Zinfandel that I had with a fabulous meal at The Burning Tree in Bar Harbor. PLEASE try and get some of this wine!!!
November 24, 2008

jjmabaseb
Good Zin–Renwood makes some good Zins. have liked their 02 Grandmere, Ravenswood Lodi and Sonoma old vines are decent too
Bad Zin–Cellar 8 (I think it was called)…not good

Gary–Any wagers on Jets/Broncos next weekend??

-Jon from Colorado
November 24, 2008

Hawaiian Vayniac
QOTD: 2005 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Zinfandel ROCKED MY WORLD!!!
Rosenblum Cuvee Zinfandel made me GAG!
November 24, 2008

Murso
Zin’s just too much fruit for me anymore. Note that Robt’ Parker’s, and I’ll bet others’ vintage charts rate the vintages ‘05 and ‘06 BELOW 80 points for Zin. That’s in the blue, and not good, friends(pertinent to North Coast appelations, only, so you can keep on lapping up the central valley rubbish they bottle on the CHEAP end with no more adverse affects than you already suffer.). Maybe Paso’s ok, but I haven’t kept up , as of late. Tobin James was just one of many goodies down that way, once upon a time. Yes, Scott Harvey had impressed me w/ vg quality, and under $20 as I recall. Sorry for Ravenswood, but I’m sure they won’t lose any shelf pull, even if they failed on several bottlings. Happy for Sebastiani – they’d been pretty good across the varietal line, and top releases like the Domenici Zin were killer. Very Happy for Mr. Rosenblum, as well.

I think Michael and David Phillips got it down in their Earthquake, but, again, it’s been a couple of years. And finally, Mr. Peter Franus, Brandlin Vineyard (Mt. Veeder) somehow intensifies the fruit, but subdues the annoying sweetness aspect, sort of taking it in a Cab direction.

Sucked? Is that a bit of a loaded question? And there are many who will slug the stuff down, almost expressly for the stupid levels of alcohol they can get without breaking the $9.99 barrier. I seen it, week in, and week out. But the real vile offenders are the major campaigns that wish to speak for quality through their sheer voluminous displays and signage boasting to be something great that they are not.. Like Gnarly Head ( and many others in that realm).

Booooo.
November 24, 2008

Askold Shegedyn
I had the Edmeades Mendocino Zinfandel 06 which was not bad. it needed some air time to open up where the nose changed from black pepper to cassis. A bit of oak but integrated with nice fruit.
November 24, 2008

DAve A
Gary. Rocking show. These blind Tuesdays are great. LOVE your energy and passion even if you don’t like the wine.

Best Zin I’ve had this YEAR? My own Zin, made from WinExpert kit. yum! man. Bad Zin? Ravenswood. yuck.
November 24, 2008

ryan
frank family zin rocks my boat
November 24, 2008

Dennis Ray Nestor Jr.
I goes to show that it takes a lot to tear down a well build Brand.

Just of kicks you should do Brand taste challenges for different products every once and a while.
November 24, 2008

EricB
hey it was educational regardless of the outcome – if nothing else, it’s what NOT to get for thanksgiving.
QOTD: the consistently best zin is the Ridge Geyserville for me.
as far as bad ones go, I have had several lately that had a secondary fermentation, “frizzante” character which i find disgusting in a red. I think it’s a flaw – not sure what causes it.
November 24, 2008

hugh
I tried the Thomas Henry about 6 months ago as a recommendation-hated it, thin, herbacous, like a cheap Cote du Rhone….I recently had two I like, on the lower end, Klinker Brick 06 from Lodi-this Zin delivers well in the price range of $15-17, maybe a bit over oaked but good…..also had a Turley 2006 Cedarman Vineyard at the Palm in Atlanta-surprised the sh-t out of me. Good pure fruit, well-integrated oak and showing no heat despite 16.2 alcohol…and barely lasted 15 minutes in the decanter…..just purely delicious and what u want from a Zin.
November 24, 2008

Roberto
Hi Gary, like your bearded look, you kinda look like a famous actor (sorry, dunno who)

Love the blind tastings, please revisit my comments from the other day for ideas on that, if you wish. Thanks again for friday’s shout out, we had a great weekend in NJ (A City w/ ex Mrs. Ritchie)

QOTD: Four Vines 2005, Maverick… great zin… try it.
November 24, 2008

AT
7 Deadly Zins is where it is at!
November 24, 2008

David
Lodi zins have been very good. Cosentino makes several outstanding examples…his CigarZin at $15 what a deal

Oh, and Paso. Biker Zin was one of my favs of all time. A beauty.

But I have to part ways with Gary. I think zin is too powerful for Thanksgiving — unless you are stuffing the bird with short ribs.
November 24, 2008

Pete G
In light of the suck ass wines on this show, I think you need a David
Lettermanesque “Smash Wall” – a white cement wall where you take crap
wines and smash the bottle agaianst the wall. Think that would really
make a statement as to how you feel.

QOTD: Although I’ve had a boatload I honestly can’t name any crapola
zins – so bad I musta forgot them. On the bright side – Four Vines
“Maverick” 2005. Very good juice.
November 24, 2008

Cuse Wino
Bummer of an episode-
at least you have the JETS!

QOTD- Have not been drinking any Zin lately but one of my favorites is Peachy Canyon.
November 25, 2008

Matt R
LOVE LOVE LOVE the recent blind tastings! What the wine is worth tells me a lot more than a 0 – 100 score.

Two suggestions:

1) DO MORE BLIND SHOWS!

2) Focus less on guessing the right price. Give us the price at which the wine is a buy.
November 25, 2008

Lauren Tedeschi
I’m liking Gravity Hills, Tumbling Tractor Zinfandel from Paso Robles, CA (gotta rep the home town). Great price point for the quality of wine. $13.99
November 25, 2008

Terence F
I gotta say, the best wine of the bunch had the worst packaging, despite the little tear-off info, it was totally a musty country club looking wine, and the rest weren’t great either. Come on guys, you live in California, get good graphic designers.
November 25, 2008

David T
Lack of quality just happens sometimes, unfortunately. I bought a merlot recently from a producer I thought I had heard good things about, only to find it to be watered down crap.

QOTD: I also seem to recall a recent Ravenswood vintage (I think it was the ‘04) to be not that great. I had the 2006 Bogle Vineyards Zinfandel Old Vine about 2 months ago and thought it was pretty darn good.
November 25, 2008

MarkoftheGrape
Even though lousy wines, still enjoyed the episode and the blind tasting format – I love the unpredictability and the unbiasness.

Go Jets! And thats coming from someone born & brewed in Wisconsin. I think I’ve watched more Jets games than Packer games this year…

QOTD: I dont like most Zins – just not my varietal, I guess. But did have the Seghesio 07 tonight while watching the episode, and enjoyed quite a bit. Dont see it anywhere near the 93pts or #10 of the year like WS does – but still probably best Zin I’ve had.
November 25, 2008

wayno da wino
Yo G, FUUUUUUUUUN & COOOOOOOOL Episode, even if the Vinos weren’t so
hot!! Hey, Ya can’t have everything. Hard ta follow up on a Great Jets
Victory…… How coool would a Jets/Giants Super Bowl be ??!!

QOTD: Had two Seghesio Sonoma County 1997s the other day & they were still bursting with flavor!! Haven’t had a “bad” one lately…..
November 25, 2008

Zinfreak
Great show Gary,
Unfortunately none of them really showcased California’s favorite varietal (OK my favorite varietal).

Too bad “The Vault” by Banknote Wine Company wasn’t in the mix, it would have blown the others away! Its a Zin blend similar to “The Prisoner” by Orin Swift.

I have an idea……..

Taste off: “The Vault” vs “The Prisoner”! Napa Valley Zin blend showdown!

QOTD: “T-Vine” Zinfandel, Brown Vineyard, 05 if you can find it, but 06 is almost as good. Amazing Zin producer.
Also I have to mention “Valdez”, Rockpile Zinfandel 06, this one blew me away!
November 25, 2008

Foo Fighter
De-Lurked on Friday with that awesome blind.

I. LOVE. BLIND. You must kill your store’s sales of the stuff you rate badly. But I hope, hope, hope the uptick in the wines you rate well make up for it. Reminds me sooo much of the video game industry.

This episode is case-in-point why normal people **have** to depend on point scores. You just burned through **$140** worth of wine and only **one** bottle was really worth buying and drinking. We’re supposed to blow a bill and a half to find a decent bottle that matches our pallets and drinks OK with turkey?

To answer your question of the day (QOTD in these parts?): I predicted the results before you even started. I’ve had so much frankly **shitty** Calinfornia Zin in the past two years I refuse to buy it any more.

Congratulations California Zinfandel producers. You’ve self-destructed your market. I mean, the price point of everyone I know who drinks wine is $8-$15. We’ll stretch to $20-$30 if it’s a big occasion and we’ve had the wine, know it’s good, and matches the tastes of the people who’ll be celebrating with us. California Zin should nail this in the US, but we have an Epic Fail on their hands.

I’ve had these exact vintages of Coppola, Henry, and Ravenswood this year (all at office functions where they want to have a nice label, but don’t want to drop to much coin on alcohol). Garbage, swill, I’ll take a rail gin and tonic next, please.
November 25, 2008

chukhead-ted
Hey GV! MASSIVE congratulations to you and all the fellow jets fans for the huge, crazy big win!!! I was watching and rooting for jets early afternoon and then big time for my G-MEN also on sunday (10-1!)

i have not had any zin in the past year! wow, a shame! i really want to try the seghesio 07 sonoma and some good ridge zin–and i will soon!

i had the 04 coppola zin years ago and gave it about an 86 rating–not something i would recommend at all, but i didnt find it offensive.
November 25, 2008

chukhead-ted
p.s. keep up the blind tastings!!! thank you!
November 25, 2008

apj_bobswineguy
I’m out on blind tasting episodes. Tried to fight thru but boring.
Please. Less BLIND.
Cowboys are back in it!
Check back tomorrow.
November 25, 2008

Brian
Great, great Zins from Paso Robles. Favorites…Tobin James (Balistic is great, but esp their reserves)and Peachy Canyon.
November 25, 2008

Foo Fighter
After reading all the comments so far, I have to wonder:

Why is anyone drinking Cali Zin?

It is so consistently bad at the lower prices and so hit-and-miss at the mid-to-high prices, what’s the point. Even at it’s best it isn’t that good.

Sounds like everyone with a Zin vine should just pull them up and replace them with something better. Or at least more consistent. Table grapes, maybe. Spinach? Sweet corn?
November 25, 2008

ChicagoChris
Gary,
Two words – Bordeaux Blind!

I miss you here in Illinois, if you know what I mean.

- Chris
November 25, 2008

Joel
so, 2 questions

Do you think the Howell was so cloying with nose vs. palate because it was high quality fruit that was over oaked?

Could you do a blind show that was international wines, all grapes, all bottles under $20? I’m sure many people would appreciate it (though it would drive up the price of the winner! And Ian, no mischief)

I’m a server who attends many wine tastings and has had the opportunity to taste some brilliant wines. Unfortunately, it is difficult to find many wines under $20 for day to day. I have found a few, but it gets really boring drinking the same few wines all the time.

Help a brother out!
November 25, 2008

rimarfish
Great Show Gary! Love blind tasting shows!!!
QOTD: Gotta go with Seghesio Sonoma County. I had the last 3 vintages and they were all superbs!!
November 25, 2008

medo
Again: great format! I love the “true” blind emotions about the wines.

@QOTD: 2003 Ridge Lytton Springs rockted the house!
November 25, 2008

irvus
the itchy itch will make you grouchy no matter how lucky the Jets got down here. good crusty show. hearing some gripe balances out the sunshine shows. may your beard exceed your lid.
irv

ps-best and worst zin; the good crew and whole darn pouch o’ white zin (yeah yeah)liberated from its Franzia box drank on the last day of high school 1990.
November 25, 2008

chukhead-ted
serious question for gary:

that tannat was sitting out for 3 days and it didnt even start to spoil? i usually feel wines start to oxidize too much pushing 2 days open. can you always keep wine out that long?
November 25, 2008

CrazyManAndy
“…and pair this up with a hot dog.”

LOL! Sounds like a good combo.

Man, that fourth wine pissed you off! Even slipped a curse word in there, hehe. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so negative and down, and after a Jets win no less! Great show, they can’t all be winners!

CMA
November 25, 2008

YoungDave
QOTD: Rocked my world recently:

2006 Dashe Zinfandel, Dry Creek
2006 Opolo Zinfandel, “Mountain”, Paso Robles (although a BOMB!!…done well)

Sucked:
2006 Z52 Zinfandel, Lodi
November 25, 2008

shawnandlu
Great show and brought me back out of lurker status. You really hit on a big problem in California right now. I used to be a Zin freak and drank it up like water zin, zin and more zin but not so much any more. The quality and the styles have been all over the board. Maybe that is why I have switched over to drinking so many Paso, central Coast and French Rhone blends.

My personal belief is that a lot of producers are going Barrosa with over the top flavors/extractions. Zin the red Cali Sav blanc.

Worst Zins for qpr Turley Why do so many people rave about these out of balance, over the top, wines I will never understand.

Best Zin for qpr Edmeades Mendocino Zinfandel 06 twelve bucks and solid wine you gave it an 89 but so wanted to give it a 90 but the “finish” You tasted it on a day when you were just being tight with the points. It is a good wine give it the extra point you owe it!
November 25, 2008

Susan B
Two Zinfandels I have enjoyed are: Folie a Deux Amador County 2005 and Sobon Hillside Select Zinfandel Amador County 2006.
November 25, 2008

John M Heavey
I, too, love the blind format–it’s the real deal. It takes label rep–a la GV’s reference to the Ravenswood–right out of the mix. I have always gone for the Ridge line-up of zins. I don’t think they have sold out to the New World syndrome of overly extacted, candified fruit bombs. Used to love the Rafanelli Zins when they were distributed. Anyone know their quality now?
November 25, 2008

brian
thanks for putting a smile on my face, I really needed it.
November 25, 2008

theemptyglass
From the comments it sounds like Zins are polarizing, people are either fans or not. Personally, I am not a fan. I have not had any zins that rocked my world. But that’s not to say I won’t ever have one that will. So I’ll keep on tasting.
November 25, 2008

adamd
J-E-T-S, jets, jets,jets. just happened to pick up big tattoo, find out this weekend.
November 25, 2008

CaseyLee
before i start this episode, gary i have to admit that im pretty excited that it is yet another blind tasting.

that was neat that the wine you decanted wasnt that great. it seems like mayeb it was better before you decanted it? i dont remember how you thought of it on friday of last week.

LOL cinamey? after 4 but its all good. this wine was still a good expirience. show you whats going on with zin i guess. .
QOTD havent tried alot of zin
November 25, 2008

Susan
Gary, Have to agree!!!! JETS, JETS, GO JETS!!!!!! GGGGOOOOOOOOO JETSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!JETS, JETS, GO JETS!!!!!! GGGGOOOOOOOOO JETSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!ETS, JETS, GO JETS!!!!!! GGGGOOOOOOOOO JETSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!JETS, JETS, GO JETS!!!!!! GGGGOOOOOOOOO JETSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!
November 25, 2008

SaraMHCRU
I like cline’s entry level zin with pizza, and i was a huge fan of the ‘04 gravity hills tumbling tractor, which i can’t find anymore. there are a lot of crappy zins out there and i have found that the crappiest usually do some play on “zin” because they have nothing else going for them… i.e., “artezin” “7 deadly zins” and so on.
November 25, 2008

Andrew
QOTD:

Biale Black Chicken 06, a bit pricey (had to order through their mailing list to get any), it is amazing
November 25, 2008

Al French
Neyers Pato Vineyard, which I liked a little better than the High Valley. Also, The Pines 1852 from the Columbia Gorge AVA is a favorite. Haven’t had any really bad ones lately.
November 25, 2008

Paul Stonier
I also like Cline’s Zinfandel. I had that about a month ago with some pasta. Nice and peppery with decent structure, good dark berry.

However, my favorite is Joel Gott’s Zin. The greenness of the nose is awesome. Let it open up a bit more and the fruit gets very bright, almost like nectarines with some blueberry.

I had some really cheap zin, and didn’t care for it, but I don’t remember the name.
November 25, 2008

italianwinelover
Great format! A shame you seemed so down wish one of them could be a zinger…but do have to agree with you….

QOTD: Rosenblum Cuvee XXX is my favorite so far at least what I’ll be bringing to T-day dinner!! Had Klinker Brick but whoaaa the oak monster was on that one.

JETS WIN!!!!
November 25, 2008

Justin
Really liked the show Gary. Sometimes you win and sometimes you loose eh.

“Massive amounts of wood exploding on my palette” – Hilarious.

Keep it up.

-Justin
November 25, 2008

Ken T
There is no better than Brown’s!!! I also drink Frank’s Family Vineyard, Biale, and Neyers.
November 25, 2008

Lance Bradstreet
QOTD –

Recently tried the 2006 Bogle Old Vine Zin, for the $10 – $12 price range I thought it was a good play.

Great weekend for the Jets, pathetically awful weekend for the my Browns!
November 25, 2008

Bill T
Great show! I appreciate your honesty, Gary. QOTD – Favorite Zin ever has to be a 2004 Elyse Howell Mountain Zin …just a fantastic bottle of wine! Next favorite would have to be a 2005 Seghesio Prati Zin. Least favorite would have to be a Rosenblum Cellars Vintner’s Cuvee Zinfandel.

I just recently had the 2006 Neyers High Valley Zin, loved it and looking forward to trying the ‘05.
November 25, 2008

Bill T
Forgot to mention…
Had a Montevina Zinfandel Port which was a great QPR …search it out for somethig different.
November 25, 2008

Rob B.
Loves Zins. Of the Zins we have had recently, the most interesting would be from a small producer from Dry Creek Valley, called Bluenose. The 2005 Bluenose Zinfandel had 884 cases produced and was very nice. On the flip side, the one that was bad was the 2005 Ravenswood Vitners Blend. Terrible.
November 25, 2008

Matt_inAZ
Loved the show. My wife and me look forward to each and every show that you do. Funny thing is my kids love to watch also. I mean they were busting up on todays show. You brighten our day even if you can’t find a good Zin. Keep trying to find wines of decent quality that we can find on the grocery store shelf!

Keep us laughing.
November 25, 2008

Grasshopper
Sensei,

Love the blind tasting and as you even admitted, I think your scores are more honest without the preconceived notions and without knowing which large producer you might be slamming..:)

QTD – Love Gravity Hills Tumbling Tractor, Most Seghesio’s and Lambert Bridge Maple Vineyards.

Hopper
November 25, 2008

Scott
I think that the best zins for your buck are made by seghesio. They make several and I would love to see them tasted on the show.
November 25, 2008

Braden Loves Zin
I too have been hugely disappointed with a number of Cali Zins. There are of course some exceptions… Hanna 2005 Bismark Mountain is exceptional, and A. Rafanelli makes great Zin (both the 2005 and 2006 are outstanding) which you can only buy at the winery. If only I could get on their mailing lists, but no such luck here in Canada.
November 25, 2008

stewart l
I’m not surprised at the scores, the first four wines are entry level.
My most recent favorite zins-Ancient Peaks and Four vines-either the Biker or The Sophistcate.
Worst zin- I had the Sebastiani and was not impressed
November 25, 2008

Vinifeinda
What up Gary! Been watching the show about a month now…. Loving the energy and enthusiasm you bring to the table! My dream is to become a small scale but high quality vintner and you are stoking the fire big time! Thanks bro…. keeo it up!
Some good Zins are Bogle old vine ‘06, Peachy Canyon ‘Incredible Red’, and just tried one last night called Zagan’s Fire that was pretty darn good too, and all for under $10 on sale! Cheers!
Santa Barbara, CA in the house!
November 25, 2008

Greg Z
Absolutely awesome show. The very reason blind tastings with Gary are what the industry needs. I hate the word industry when discussing wine. It takes bigs ….. to stand up and do what is not simple to accomplish. The right thing is seldom easy. This is the only way to let those that care know that change needs to take place. Short term fakes can only fool the ignorant. Long term fakes combined with good communication will kill the those winemakers that don’t care to be real. I have loved almost everything that comes from Howell Mountain vinyards. Over oaked is over oaked. This is why Gary’s cander is truely appreciated. Once again, the vital reason that blind tastings are the way to go. The only mistake you made Gary, was showing a little embarressment for being honest in regard to a big name. Keep up the high level of integrity Gary.
November 25, 2008

Bill Field
On the bargain end, I think Cline’s Zinfandel California (under $10) delivers more than you’d expect. Keeping it under $20, I’d say Trentadue, Cline’s Ancient Vine, Dry Creek, and Opolo’s Summit Creek do the job. If I want to spend more money, I like Frank Nerelli’s ZinAlley 06 Zin.
November 25, 2008

Scott EJ
Tough show, G. Every wine/varietal needs a good asswhooping from time to time.

QOTD: I don’t remember the worst Zin I’ve had as they’ve all been pretty solid lately. Personal faves that don’t break the bank: Edmeades, Peterson, and V Sattui.
November 25, 2008

Vinovanwilt
Qotd The Zin that rocked my world was my familys home made Brown Dog 2 1998 Zin. The Zin that let me down was believe it or not the Neyers it was good but not as great as Gary said. I’m trying the Murrietas Well 2006 Zin on Thanksgiving.
November 25, 2008

Babs
Gary, Great (as always) and VERY interesting show – Rosenblum usually receives pretty good marks for their Zins. My fave Zin currently is Ridge (Dry Creek). Also, would be most curious to see you do a blindtasting of Lodi Zins to see if they fare any better. If you get a chance, I’d also be curious about your review of a new garage Zin called SideJob. Experienced it at a “new award winners” tasting this past Summer, liked it, bought some.

Ribeye Steak and peppery zin – one of God’s greatest pairings.
November 25, 2008

alisha
QOTD: Two recent faves are Layer Cake Primitivo ‘06 and Earthquake Zin from Lodi.
November 25, 2008

Herb
Gary,

FYI: QB ratings as of this week – Brett Favre 94.1 / Jeff Garcia 94.5

I…ME…Mine…Tampa Bay Bucs (8-3) – #2 seed in the NFC just behind those worthless Giants. lol

You recommended the Rosenblum 2006 Petite Shirah some time ago and it was delicious.
November 25, 2008

Dane Campbell
congrats on the jets domination of a win!

QOTD: Recently i had the Chateau Montelena Zinfandel im sorry i foget the vintage, but i only paided 15 bones and it brought some serious tunder!
November 25, 2008

JeffC
QOTD. Worst lately, Ravenswood Vintners Blend. Best, Ridge Geiserville, or Lyton Springs.
November 25, 2008

Laurie in VT
QOTD: Have had enough ‘meh’ zins that I’ve stayed away from them.

When/if I make myself some spare time, I’m going to do some research to find out why quality zin seemingly can’t be produced for under $20/bottle…
November 25, 2008

Dave J.
Great show! I really enjoy the blind tastings.

QOTD
Best: Hendry Zin Block 7 2005
Worst: Mia’s Playground or ZinMan
November 25, 2008

JJ
A lot of wines today! I’m surprised about the results as well. Only one mediocre Zin out of 6!

Question? Why are Zins associated with turkey day?

QOTD: Four Vines Zin is pretty good and its around $11.
November 25, 2008

Robin C
QOTD: Haven’t been drinking that many zinfandels lately, but am very fond of Andretti Winery 2005 Zinfandel-Primitive Blend.

I’m campaigning for a Cabernet for Thanksgiving – maybe Ridge Montebello

Wow, the Jets really came through for you. Sounds like you’ll never let them go now.
November 25, 2008

Oklahoma Michael
QOTD= The secret pack Zin rocked big time!! (sorry if i ruined it for anyone) I couldnt wait. Tin Barn Zin sucks
November 25, 2008

MTSage
For one of my rare de-lurking posts:

Louis M Martini, Monte Rosso “Gnarly Vine” Zinfandel 2005 was something that rocked me.

Francis Coppola ‘05 Zinfandel (Diamond Red Label) was not bad, really.

Recently had a bottle of Chouinard 1997 Zinfandel, Lodi, California, “Old Vines” Mohr-Fry Ranches. 14.1% alcohol. It was wonderful, even if perhaps a year or so past prime.

Kudos, of course, to the Jets.
November 25, 2008

Brú
Another Favorite Zinfandel is the Alexander Valley Sin Zin.
It would be awesome if that made it into one of your reviews!

I was disappointed to see such a poor showing by Ravenswood.
I usually buy Ravenswood wines and as a general rule feel they’re
normally great wines.
November 25, 2008

novel idea
I was happy to see central coast wine make a showing.. would love you to do a blind tasting of some major central coast offerings… would be cool!
November 25, 2008

JonBLodi
QOTD: My palate definitely doesn’t do well with the fakey oak, reverse-osmosis style, where residual sugar has been added to sugarfy the fruit with Megapurple concentrate. I’m afraid you’ll find that style with many of the Cali Zins under $10.

I favor RRV and Lodi, along with a few from the Sierra Foothills and Paso.

Love Ridge, Seghesio, Copain, and Carlisle. Some past memorable Zins: 1997 Cline Bridgehead, 1999 Martinelli Giuseppe & Luisa (almost too rich and high alc.!), 1999 Hanna Bismark Ranch, 2002 Jessie’s Grove Westwind (EXCELLENT!).
November 25, 2008

Jason S.
QOTD: Best lately was a Papapietro-Perry (can’t recall the vintage). I don’t drink Zin that much, so I can’t recall the worst lately.
November 25, 2008

Brad
Great show, it confirms my palate. I am not a fan of Zin, I have had one that I could drink, and that was the Neyer’s Zin, so thank you for putting it in the the list. Great wine. But pretty much every other Zin I have had sucked. They have all been too much (too jammy, too spicy, too oaky, too much).
November 25, 2008

MattUD
An interesting show, nice to see you bash some wines a little more since it was blind.

Thanks for the help at the WL on Saturday!
November 25, 2008

Grant
Blind tastings are great. How about one verdejos. As for favorite tasted lately, Sobon Fiddletown Amador County. Glad to see your Jets do well. I see there are other Browns fans on the site – our team has really disappointed. Probably need at least a coaching change for next year. But we will keep up our support.
November 25, 2008

Shawn_944
QOTD: Bonterra’s Zin (05 i think) has a huge butterscotch finish that I loved and could drink for days upon days, Gnarlyhead 06 Zin i feel brought the thunder!

A bad zin… any white zin lol
November 25, 2008

Jayhitek
QOTD: Neal rocked.
November 25, 2008

Seattle Zin Guy
QOTD: I think the Rosenblum Monte Rosso 2005 is drinking exceptionally well right now. Having really enjoyed previous vintages of Frog’s Leap Zinfandel, I found the 2006 to be pretty disappointing (not the worst zin I’ve tasted recently, but the most disappointing since I expect good things from Frog’s Leap).
November 25, 2008

Arnaud H
Great show, Gary! As an expat Frenchman now living in Wine Country, Zins were a wonderful discovery for me a few years back when I started getting into them. A friend of mine – another French expat – pretended he didn’t like Zin wines, and one day, at a BBQ he organized, I brought a bottle of Saracina’s Atrea Old Soul Red, which is a Zin-dominated blend (for those of you Prisoner fans out there, it’s a wine you will like, and it’s 10 bucks cheaper). I didn’t tell him it was a Zin, and he really liked it.

QOTD: I had a horrible Zin at a restaurant several months ago, but I don’t remember what winery produced it – I guess my mind blocked it out. It was incredibly harsh and vinous. I asked the waitress if the bottle had been opened too long, and she told me she had just opened it. Ugh.

As for Zins I love: the aforementioned Atrea ($25), the Quivira Dry Creek Zin (great value at $15) and the Jelly Jar Nova Vineyard from Lake County ($22) are my goto-under-$25 Zins. This Thanksgiving, I’ll open an ‘05 Turley Old Vines and a ‘06 Artezin from Mendocino ($15), but there’ll also be a Beaujolais Nouveau, and maybe a Cab or a Pinot Noir. Looking forward to it.
November 25, 2008

Harry
I recently had a big day tasting Zins, and to be honest, I wasn’t rocked by any of them. That being said, I don’t think I’ve ever been rocked by a Zin, even by a 97 Turley. I’m curious what Zins you’d suggest for a very old world palate who loves CdP, St. St. Joseph, and earth Primitivos.
The best one I had was Storybook Vy (an amazingly beautiful property) Eastern Exposure 2005, which had 10% Viognier blended in after fermentation. It was deep purple, almost black, with dark chocolate fondue, apricots and dark flowers on the nose, followed by soft black cherry and raspberries soda with good med+ acid. The CA wine peeps were very impressed.

Great job in the blind tasting today.
I think it would be better to keep the blinds to 4 wines max, since otherwise it gets really long and somewhat confusing.
November 25, 2008

Rick D
QOTD: Hartford Zinfandel Fanucchi-Wood Road Vineyard 2005. This zin blew me away. Not only the best zin I have had this year, but maybe the best wine I’ve had this year. Price is up there though at 50 bones. Have really had a bad zin lately, but I drink more old world stuff so I haven’t had that many.

I have also tried some Italian Primitivo that was good.

Affordable go to zin is Seghesio or Edmeades.
November 25, 2008

streamertyer
Too bad the Ravenswood wasn’t their Belloni. The 2005 showed Peterson’s greatness despite 05 not being a good year for zin. Easily one of the best I had in the past year.
November 25, 2008

luvgrapesqueezings
Thanks for taking those hard shots for the team!!!!!!

QOTD: The worst recent zin- the entry level Ravenswood– real crap
The best recent zin- ‘05 Ridge Lytton Springs

Matt Cassel & Co. getting it done………..GO PATS GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 25, 2008

Deano
Gary great episode I really love the blind episodes
November 25, 2008

Nick
I like Rancho Zabaco’s Sonoma Heritage Zin and 7 deadly zins worked for me. I am also a fan Folie A Deux’s Menage A Trois, which is primarily a zin blended red (can’t beat the 9-10 dollar price), Bogle’s Old Vines are okay as well.

I was disappointed with the entry-level Ravenswood, Rosenblum’s entry-level XXX, Seghesio (93 points really?) and Ridge’s Three Valleys. I keep hearing great things about Ridge though, and am looking forward to trying the Geyserville and Lytton Springs Zins.

Am a relative newby to wine, so I’m probably tailored to liking the fruitier zins.
November 25, 2008

Toby (DK)
GREAT show – Classic!

Nice to see that kind of “structure” on the show.

Our store has recently taken in the Silver Peak Zin. – fair quality at a fair price. Yet they do tend to over-oak, e.g.: their chardonnay.

(P.S.: Please more champagne-shows )
November 25, 2008

Raphael S
Good show with some tough wines, and nice work with the blind tasting.

I had a tip about showing the color of a red wine for your viewers. I notice that the color seems more visible when you swirl the glass, than when you hold it up for the camera to see. Try swirling red wines behind a white background, and it will be clear for all to see.
November 25, 2008

Kodi
Thanks Gary. You confirmed what my wife and I have been seeing in California Zins the last couple years. We used to really enjoy them a lot, but rarely find ones we like anymore – so we now spend our time in other varietals. It could just be that you are changing/evolving our palates. But i think it is just the huge, over the top zins that are being made. I guess some people could then call them a great “date” wine – they are regularly getting into the 15%+ alcohol categories which does not make for an enjoyable wine for us.
November 25, 2008

Paryb
Gary, thanks for calling it like you taste it buddy!

QOTD: Rocked my face off: a couple weeks ago my best bud was in town, and we popped open my bottle of 2001 Saxon Brown Zin…Jeff Gaffner product man, it was like plums and gorp(ya know the stuff with dried candied fruits and nuts and m&ms tons of spice, man, it was soooo awesome.

Threw up in my mouth a little: Like you had, the Ravenswood…meh, tasted watered down to me.
November 25, 2008

Collin
QOTD – Sucked – Cline Zinfandel, 2006 – Tastes like candy, and not good candy, crappy candy.

Best – Martinelli “Giuseppe & Luisa”

The road to the Super Bowl still goes through Nashville. Don’t celebrate too hard, yet.
November 25, 2008

M
QOTD: I haven’t had much Zin recently. I didn’t realize my Zin drinking was following a quality trend. Not too long ago, I had a serviceable Hayman & Hill Dry Creek Valley Zin, good QPR. In the past I’ve had Zinfandel mostly from the big producers, Ravenswood, Ridge, Rosenblum. I’ve also liked Robert Biale Zins but haven’t had one recently. I’m still itching to try the Magito Zinfandel that was a hit on the thunder show.
November 25, 2008

Bimi
QOTD: Had one nice blend of Zinfandel (or Primitivo, as it’s named usually over here in Europe) and Cab. Don’t remember the name, was about 8€, i.e. 10$ and woth the buy
November 25, 2008

thefaamakesmedrink
Gary Vee,

When you said that the Thomas Henry was the wine ‘to ruin all occasions’, I actually laughed out loud.

Here are two things I wish for The Thunder Show in 2009:

1. More blind tastings

b. More smack

Because if you’ve got something bad to say about a wine, let’s hear it!

Regards,

Fred Rogers
November 25, 2008

ChrisR
QOTD: Rocked – 2005 Ridge Carmichael. THE best wine I’ve had all year. Period!
Sucked – 2006 Seghesio. WTF? The ‘05 was outstanding, and this was a huge disappointment.

Here’s my question for you, Gary: When are we going to hear your pics for the Beau Nouveau? It’s that time of the year!
November 25, 2008

Richard Ritter
In a word “Honest”. Way to keep it real! Doing it blind is like taking truth syrum. You may ruffle some feathers, but in the end it’s YOUR PAL!

QOTD: Just had an ‘05 SIMI Zin. Not half bad.

I’m looking foward to sitting in Wine Library Stadium when you own the JETS!
November 25, 2008

astropress
Preston Vineyards from Dry creek rawks. great balance, and organic and not too pricey. Worst Zins…wow, I’ve had a lot. Here in No.Cal we’re exposed to a lot of them. My Mother in law loves the Ravenswood vinters blend, that’s right up there in pukesville for me. As are many of the lower level rosenblums that are part of seemingly every street fair in alameda.
November 25, 2008

C-Fiddy
QOTD: Berghold “Foot Stomp” Lodi Zinfandel was a good blend of New and Old World. 19 bucks I think, We loved it. I can’t remember what sucked, It’s been a while. Have a great T-Day everyone!~
November 25, 2008

Karl Laczko
Cool show, the first one I’m watching (& replying to) on my new iPhone!
Can’t answer the QOTD- don’t have my list to hand, but will try and open
a Zin this weekend.
November 25, 2008

Rex
QOTD Not much zin exposure (only had 3 or 4 in the last 10 years…) but a 1996 Ridge Geyserville opened two years ago was very fine indeed. That prompted me to hold on to my 1999 Lytton Springs until now (I’ll probably open it within the next year).
November 25, 2008

Wojtek
Bring on Spanish blind tastings.
November 25, 2008

John
Had Norman Monster Zinfandel the other day.
November 25, 2008

kaybee
Sorry, you had trouble with California Kool-aid! It’s a minefield.
Recently had Campus Oaks Old Vines, 25.00 which was very red fruit forward, but had a nice mid palate and finish, liked it a lot. The last one I really liked was Girard 2006, Old Vines, Napa Valley. It was old school, rich cassis, plummy, a little poop de poop, around 22.00, but worth it. My investigation has just begun, and I’m a little choosy, so I haven’t landed a stink bomb yet.
November 25, 2008

the2urbs
Man… I was in Santa Rosa last summer… Rosenblumn has a great tasting room for $5…. Yum.

I use to LOVE Roshambo, but they have gone a bit lame…

I love Armida… across the street on Dry Creek.. GO & Buy & taste for Free.
November 25, 2008

randysanders
Gary,
Excellent show. Too bad you didn’t find more good ones.
I started with Zins, and have tried a lot of wines…it
took me quite a while to get to like Cabs, but I’ve tried
a lot of red varietals. Still don’t like old-world wines,
and usually stick with CA, Australia, Chile, Argentina and
S. Africa. My fav. Zin is Michael-David Earthquake because
it’s got that solid broad base, like a decent Cab, and a
finish that just won’t quit. I can’t lie, I like Zins so
much that I will even drink Gnarly Head and enjoy it.
November 25, 2008

lawschooldrunk
what’s the connection between zins and thanksgiving? I never heard of one. would love to know the reactions from these wineries if they contact you, gary!
November 25, 2008

ev
After hearing your “best smelling fart in the room” comment, Cathy came in from outside and asked “what’s so funny”. I screamed for a full minute and she heard me outside. Tee hee.
November 25, 2008

ev
Don’t forget WA zins. There was a vineyard planted on the Columbia River between WA and OR 100 years ago. Sinean makes a couple, never had them. Try Barnard Griffin and Maryhill. I’ve had them in the past and loved them.
November 25, 2008

Bruce Lane
Best zin from my perspective, D3 (D cubed) from Napa Valley. Small producer whose wine can be had from the Collective in Napa. Have had various of his wines on trips to Oregon and California from home in BC. Can’t get it here.
November 26, 2008

DH
Friend of my brought a Cline “old vines” to a party, not very good. It lacked depth. I bought some Seghesio 07 before watching this show and I’m glad to see the name pop up, positively, in the comments.
November 26, 2008

Ed Whitebone
Tried my first Zin – 2006 Beringer Vineyards Zinfandel California Collection.
I really hope this is a poor example of that grape. Just didn’t get it at all.

I checked Beringer’s website and this is how they pass it off:

“The wine has a youthful exuberance that is appealing to anyone looking for an uncomplicated wine to accompany a meal.”
November 26, 2008

Brandon S
The state of the union of CA zins makes me cry. Zins are among my favorite guys out there but tough to find quality under 25 clams.

QOTD—DANGEROUSLY close to writing in all caps
Hendry Block 28 ‘05
Seghesio Sonoma ‘07 (yeah yeah i know)
Four Vines Biker ‘06
Ridge Three Valleys. ‘06 i think.
November 26, 2008

california cab lover
Liked: Black Sears Howell Mountain, Frank Family 2002, J Zin 2002,Bella,

GREATLY disliked: Gnarly Head, Ravenswood Old Vine, Bogle Old Vine
November 26, 2008

Dan-o
Wow GV – rough show!
QOTD – My favorite Zins – Robert Biale Black Chicken, Elyse Howell Mountain
My least favorite Zins – Cline, 7 Deadly Zins
November 26, 2008

Marquette_g
Tannat rivals Petite Sirah as the worst grape on the planet. They both are almost undrinkable. I love exploring new wines, but once in a while you strike out.

I’ve tried more than one of each (7 or 8 PS) and each time wonder why I made such a poor decision.
November 26, 2008

Eric Z.
Gary, if you haven’t already, you should try a Nalle zin from the Dry Creek Valley. Under 14% alcohol, subtle, beautiful.

Otherwise, more in the bruiser category, I really like Mazzocco and Wild Hog zins.
November 26, 2008

danseng
Great blind show Gary even if the wines sucked. Love the format at least once a week.

I drink a lot of zin and have so many favorites: Black Chicken, Turley Pesenti and Ueberroth, Carlisle anything. But my favorite over the past few years has probably been the 2004 Lamborn Family Zin. At $30, probably the cheapest Heidi Barrett wine you can buy. Great stuff.

Worst zin consistently has to be 7 Deadly Zins. I don’t know how people drink that stuff. It has actually turned me off to the entire Lodi area (except maybe for the Old Ghost).
November 26, 2008

Rick McQ
Gary:

Dude! You always crack me up. Never been a fan of Zin!
November 26, 2008

Lawrence Leichtman
Many many Ridges but for value the older Ravenswood Teldeschi and Dickinson ranch before they were bought out. Their quality sank like a rock after the buyout in 2004 I believe.

Since I don’t know how to get GV to do a shout out for me I will do my own. Our first grandchild Eleanor Charlotte was just born and we are proud grandparents and look forward to putting away a wine per year for the next 21 years for her to taste when she is of age.
November 26, 2008

David Dadekian
QOTD: I had a Seghesio recently that was reviewed very well that didn’t do a thing for me. I’m not sure I’ve had one lately that rocked my world.
November 26, 2008

Jimmy T
QOTD: Peachy Canyon Incredible Red ‘03, awesome.
November 26, 2008

JudeMurphy
Haven’t had many Zinfandels…
eh… BOOBS!! : P
(Well ya gotta say something for the QOTD!)
November 26, 2008

Sharon
Ah, too bad there were no stellar Zins in the show. Yeah, great job calling the price points. And your tasting notes are spot on, I’m sure! I will keep those in mind when looking at Zins in my LWS’s.
QOTD: Well, I have enjoyed the Zins from Four Vines. Bad Zin, hmmmm. Can’t think of any at the mo.
November 26, 2008

RonC
Better luck at your next Zin tasting.
QOTD: Best was 2004 Haywood Zinfandel Sonoma Valley Los Chamizal Vineyard .
Worst was 2002 Lodi Zinfandel Old Vine
November 26, 2008

pawncop
Good episode, very interesting.

QOTD – Tried a Peachy Canyon Incredible Red 2003 a couple of weeks ago that I really enjoyed.

The only other Zin has been 7 Deadly Zins which wasn’t bad but wasn’t outstanding either.
November 26, 2008

Grace
Hi Gary! I noticed you are doing a lot of blind Zin tastings this year! I’m glad. I am a Zin lover. I’d be curious to see what kind of rating you would give to WS #10 Wine of 2008, 2007 Seghesio Sonoma County Zin. You kind of dogged the 2006, but then again I’m not criticizing your palate either. Would you rate that one soon? My website, above, will be going live next year. You’ve been such an inspiration and hopefully you’ll always remember me as the “butter girl”–the girl from Des Moines who loves her buttery Chardonnays. Thanks for all your inspiration. Happy Thanksgiving!!!!
November 27, 2008

MineAllMine
Love, love zin. As long as it’s not pink.
QOTD – Ridge Lytton Springs, Rosenblum Rockile, Mazzocco Dry Creek, Homefire Dry Creek!!
November 27, 2008

Nik
QOTD – hardly had any Zinfandels.. seems to be a very limited market in the UK. I quite liked the Ridge Geyserville Zinfandel 2005, but I tried the 2006 and was very disappointed.
November 27, 2008

thepiratedoc
Thanks for the blinds! I’ve been away for a while (was becoming a little too wine obsessed) but am back with the burning desire for good juice! I echo randy’s comment on the Earthquake.
November 27, 2008

Brian Barrick
Love Zin, but the price for a good one has shot up in recent years (like most California wine), and the market is flooded with crappy Zin at the $15 and under price point. Beware gimmicky names and colorful fancy labels.

I’m a big fan of Rosenblum, but you have to like the ultra-extracted style. A year or two of aging really helps them, especially the reserves. The 2003 Cullinane is drinking fabulously right now, and the 2006 looks to be another knockout in a few years, along with the Monte Rosso. Best QPR is the North Coast, Appellation Series.

For balance, longevity, consistency from year to year and universal appeal, it’s tough to beat the Ridge Geyserville.
November 27, 2008

Brian @ Calgary
With Napa Cabs going through the roof, I agree with Gary that there are some serious high value zin plays out there.

2 standouts – both in the $25-$30 range:

Ballentine Vineyards Zinfandel Block 9 Reserve (Napa Valley) – INCREDIBLE.

Dashe Cellars Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley.

Both of these are solid 90+ in my books.
November 29, 2008

Dave
QOTD:
Rocked:
Seghesio Old Vine
Neyers (Don’t remember which one-Patos, I believe?)

Sucked:
Rosenblum Vintners Cuvee XXX
November 29, 2008

Wine PT
QOTD: I not really a Zin drinker.
November 29, 2008

A dumb Rhine king
QOTD: I’m not a big zin drinker, it’s never sat very well on my pallet. I can’t say that I’ve had the opportunity to taste a lot of them though. I did like the Robert Mondavi Private Selection. I tasted it about a year ago, so it was probably the 2005 vintage.
November 29, 2008

JJS
QOTD: “Gary Vaynerchuk is sky high after a huge Jets wine”
November 29, 2008

Wine Maven
I had a 2004 Turley Dusi Vineyard Zinfandel on Thanksgiving. Out of 6 wines it was clearly the star. The big fruit was a great match with the sides and the turkey.

Big disappointment – 2000 Topolos Rossi Ranch zinfandel. Way too acidic.
December 1, 2008

SargieAZ
Over the holiday I had the Ridge Three Valleys 06, which is 20% other varietals but a very nice one. In the past I have been a fan of Eberle’s estate zinfandel 05, Quivira’s from Dry Creek 05, and Starry Night 05 from Russian river. It reminds me though, Gary Eberle has been making great rhone varietal wines in Paso since the beginning of time-even reputed to have planted the first syrah in california. How come Big Gary E doesn’t get any love from Gary V ?
December 1, 2008

benny z
We recommend any zins by stryker (dry creek, alexander, or russian river valleys) or mauritson (dry creek).
December 1, 2008

JayZee
QOTD: The best recently was probably the Seghesio Prati Zinfandel that we had on Thanksgiving. I cannot recall having a disappointment lately but we haven’t been drinking much Zin the last couple of months.
December 2, 2008

Devin M.
Some of the best Zins come from Amador county in the California foothills. The fruit from the older vines of the Deaver vineyards is especially good.
December 3, 2008

CBone
Generally, I love Zinfandels…

QOTD: Ridge – Ponzi Vineyards, 2005 was incredible.
I had some Australian zinfandel (an odd find, but I got it in DC) and I can not recall the name, but it tasted like a low quality Syrah mixed with jam and ground up tires. Gross.
December 3, 2008

Kristen
Wow, that was painful! But hey, you did a public service by saving us from some awful wines! You’re our first line of defense GV.

QOTD: Haven’t drank one in a long long time. Thanks for reminding me about zin. I am always on the hunt for other “weird” wines that I can forget to revisit other “normal” varietals.
December 11, 2008

Brooks C
Loved the show… Bad experience with Ravenswood Zin turned me off two years ago and never been back. After the show might not go back. Thanks for your sacrifice.
December 20, 2008

Vinacull
Great show Gary. This is one time where I don’t need to trust my *PAL*, because yours was already spot-on for this blind tasting. You had me laughing when you were trying to order the wines at the end. We love zins, and this show is a perfect illustration of why we’re not drinking them. I refuse to pay 25 to 30 or more to get one that has some depth and character, and a very large percentage of the 20 and under seem to be goopy/candified, boring, alcoholic. I agree on the excellent quality of both the Neyers (’06 High Valley, $29) and for Bobby’s wine (Shifrin Howell Zin, $27), both of which I enjoyed tasting in-store. Until the sexiness of the category hopefully blows over in the next few years and people move on to another varietal, I’ll be sticking with the value-driven Languedoc, Lirac, and Douro wines. QOTD: Last Zin I anty’d up for was the ‘02 Schulz Zinfandel Johanne for 20. Parker gave it a 91, and IMO it is well short of that (out-of-balance forward {which Parker tends to favor anyway}, hollow midpalate, short finish, alcohol spike, oak embers aftertaste). Passzzzz.
December 22, 2008

Veez
Worthy Zins 2005 Forchini Zin (& here comes 2006) Hard to find but worth the Journey: 2006 Harts Desire Ponzo Zin, Any Ridge Nervo, 2005-06 Hawley Ponzo Zin, 2005 Rued Zin, Wilson 2006 Sawyer & Selby Zins!!!

Like the broadcasts. Been a Jets fan since the 1970’s Namath,Caster,Bell,Maynard Atkinson,Riggins. Fingers crossed!
January 3, 2009

yowens
QOTD: Bella Zins are always really good
January 3, 2009

Roberto
Gary,

Love your show but your price and pallet is off. Just because Wine Library has a “sale” or a blow out sale, does not make the value of the wine. Most people will find a Napa Valley Zin for 11 bones.

Sorry I had to call it.
January 28, 2009

Justin L. Ove
I find it just as valuable to find out which wines might suck as I do which wines are great. Meaning I don’t find this show a disappointment at all. It’s good info all the same.
QOTD: 2006 Ridge Three Valleys Zin is shockingly good at 18 bones, it’s blended with petite syrah, carignane, and grenache. Awesome fruit, well balanced.
January 29, 2009

Dessert Wine Nerd
Sad that it was an 0-6 night. QOTD: Dont think ive had more than one or two zins, and certianly cant remember anything about then. Def. need to try some more, and Id like to.
February 16, 2009

David
if you want good Zin, the only place to get it is Lodi, CA.
March 6, 2009

Kevin C
QOTD:

Love Storybook Mountain Napa Valley Reserve – had every vintage since 1999
April 3, 2009

Julie in Boston
I’m very late getting this comment to you (I just recently found Wine Library TV (shocking I know)) but to answer your question, one of the best Zins I’ve had lately was the 2005 Chateau Montelena Zinfandel. Have you ever tried this, I’d love to get your thought on this particular wine. Thanks Julie
April 7, 2009

Brandon
Gary,
I’m just getting into wine, for I have only been able to legally purchase it for about a month. I’ll preface my statement with this: I am a college student. This means a small budget which results in big-time disappointment when a wine doesn’t wow me.

I absolutely LOVE the show. Consequently, I have followed you advice trying to sample as many varieties as possible. I decided to try Zinfandel tonight – a Ravenswood Napa Zin 2006 jumped out at me on the grocery store shelf and I got it. I have had their petite syrah and liked it so I assumed their Zin would be a big play for me. Immediately I caught big-time fruit on the nose. On the mouth some of the spices and vanilla got me too. However, the fruit felt artificial in the mouth. For the first 3 seconds this wine was great for me. Then…swallow! HEAT. That alcohol carried through and killed it. What was funny was the toothpaste thing. I kept thinking menthol or paste or something…then you nailed it. Hindsight 20/20, I would have scored this an 80 for my palette. I am inexperienced with both tasting and scoring, however, I have watched your show enough to know to trust my own palette. It was just a bit discouraging to see my $13 destroyed.

Just thought a novice college students perspective would be interesting to (you?) and others. Here’s my question to you: What are the three best wines under $10 that a college student (such as myself) could get into?

Cheers,
Brandon
The College of Wooster
http://www.wooster.edu
May 13, 2009

G
Used to go to the ZAP at Fort Mason when I lived up in the Bay Area. Hendry used to a nice job. Liked Seghasio across the board. Ridge was solid. Dusi Ranch is a nice fruit source. Was interesting that the Howell Mountain fruit showed big on the nose and failed in the glass, many of my favorite cabs are sourced there.

I generally prefer the paso zins for the pepper, have a number that I like down there. But was nice to see Rosenbloom take the best of the worst. Alameda suffers from being close to Oakland and well, in a way this really fits for the East Bay. And speaking of Alameda, might be a show in the Hangar One distillers…not sure that anyone else has done a “swords into spirits” transition at an abandoned military base, but they do some fun stuff.