Attributes:

Dry Creek Vineyard

Sonoma County, United States

Zinfandel

750 ML

2005: CGCW Rating: 88

solid

boysenberry, licorice, meat, plum, smoky, spicy, tobacco, wild berry

sweet

2003: WineEnthusiast Rating: 87

complex

cedar, cola, prune

2003: CGCW Rating: 86

smooth

2001: CGCW Rating: 84

deep

berries, briar, toasty oak

2000: CGCW Rating: 88

blackberries, spice

Food Matches:

Like its neighbor Napa, Sonoma is a small area filled with independent wineries and characterized by microclimates that vary according to the topography. The coolest parts of Sonoma are the fog-filled south, where the grape varieties are Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Northwards up the valley the climate warms and provides a good base for Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel. In general Sonoma wines are less dramatically flavorful than those of Napa. Cabernet Sauvignon is relatively soft, with blackcurrant fruit, minty and eucalyptus perfume, and some soft buttery oak. Zinfandel ranges from soft and gulpable to massive bramble and pepper styles. Chardonnay is rich and juicy, especially from the Russian River, and Sauvignon Blanc can be zingy and grassy. Most Sonoma wines have a freshness and a soft edge which makes them very suitable for drinking on their own, however they partner well with strongly flavored fish and meat dishes. The old-style Zinfandels are delicious with spicy cuisine.

One of California’s oldest varietals, this grape actually hails from Croatia. Red Zinfandel makes rich dark wines that are high in alcohol and medium to high in tannin. The can have a blackberry or raspberry aroma, a spicy character and even a jammy flavor. Some Zinfandels are relatively light-bodied and meant to be enjoyed young, while others benefit from aging.

Attributes:

Chateau de Malleprat

Pessac-Leognan, France

Bordeaux - Red

750 ML

Food Matches:

One of the youngest appellations in France, this region just outside the modern city of Bordeaux (and once part of the appellation Graves) boasts vineyards that have won prestige for the entire Bordeaux region. Its hilly, well-drained soil suits the Sémillon and Sauvignon Blanc grapes used to make their dry whites and the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot used in their supple, earthy reds.

Attributes:

Two Angels

Sonoma Coast, United States

Syrah / Shiraz

750 ML

Food Matches:

Originally grown in France’s Northern Rhône Valley (where it is a noble variety) this grape has spread to Australia, California, Washington, Italy and Spain. In the Rhone region this grape produces deeply colored wines with full body and firm tannin, however in Australia, where it is known as Shiraz, the wines are lighter and fruitier. Aromas and flavors for these wines vary as much as their geographical breadth suggests: berries, smoked meat, bell peppers, even tar.

Australian name for the grape known as Syrah in France.

In California, This is a 500,000 acre wine region spanning from San Pablo Bay to the border of Mendocino County. The appellation runs down the coast of the Pacific Ocean and is known for its cool climate and high rainfall. The grapes that produce the best wines from this region are Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.