Estate Zinfandel specialist Saucelito Canyon produces this bottling as their first release of the vintage each year to keep their fans happy as they wait eagerly for the estate wines to become available. It’s a collection of fruit from small producers around SLO county, and it’s definitely not a wine that gets less attention than the estate bottlings. This is a beautiful Zinfandel — one that shows what the variety can be at lower alcohol levels. Racy cherry, black pepper, mild toasted oak and touches of leafy herbs, balanced food friendly acidity and a long well integrated finish make this a wine that’s looking for some restaurant love.
Saucelito Canyon Vineyard, San Luis Obispo County (California) Zinfandel 2012
By Rich Cook