Florence Vineyard, Rockpile – Sonoma County (California) Zinfandel “Reserve” 2022 ($30)

I like the angle here – this is a generous Zinfandel that shows the restrained side of what’s possible from Rockpile. Not at all overripe or bombastic, it is very food friendly thanks to lively acidity that keeps the brambly flavors taut and tangy, with a moderate dose of black pepper that sets the fruit off nicely. This is quite well integrated already, but plenty of structure bodes well for a long life.
94 Rich Cook