Cameron Hughes, Lodi (California) 2012

An interesting blend of 57% Zinfandel, 17% Syrah, 16% Petite Sirah and 10% Tempranillo, this combines masses of open, juicy fruit with lots of subtle savory nuances. Layered and long, it is no mere fruit bomb, but rather a genuinely complex and beautifully balanced wine–that also happens to offer a lot of straightforward fun. Drawn as much from the earth as the sun, this is extremely successful and a fantastic value. Platinum Award winner at the Critics Challenge International Wine Competition.