Blackberries and black pepper come out on the nose. The palate offers a bit more red fruit to complement the blackberries, mostly dried strawberries with hints of pomegranate. Tannins are grippy, acids well in balance. There’s some earthiness and smoked meat here, too. This is a brawny young wine, a melange of fruit and depth. Drink with sausages in red sauce. Recommended. 88 points. DBH
WHO: Dutton Goldfield
WHAT: Zinfandel
WHEN: 2014
DESIGNATION: Morelli Lane Vineyard
WHERE: Russian River Valley, California
HOW MUCH: $50.00 (media sample)
POINTS: 88