April 1, 2012 – Wine: 2006 Artezin Dry Creek Zinfandel

I remember tasting this at the Hess Collection winery short after its release.  The wine suggested  a certain richness that few Zinfandels offer.  It was also full-bodied and well structured, so I bought a couple to age in the cellar.  Three years later, I opened the first one.  The richness has evolved into a slightly liqueured quality, but the wine retained its balance, tannins, and fruit.   The wine was immediately approachable before sliding into an awkward state for the better part of an hour.  After 60 minutes in the glass, it balanced out and opened up to reveal flavors of cherry, black licorice, and coffee.  Lying somewhere between elegant and rich, this wine was delicious.



2006 Artezin Dry Creek Valley