Pedroncelli 2005 Mother Clone Zinfandel (Dry Creek Valley)

This is one of the first wines I got as part of my partnership with  the California Wine Club, and I have to admit that I really enjoyed it. I've long been a fan of Zinfandel, and I particularly liked the QPR of this one at $15.

A medium-dark cherry red in the glass, the nose is everything you'd expect -- cherries, raspberries, red licorice and black pepper. On the palate fresh, almost lively, cherry and cherry confection flavors are accented by spicy black pepper and dusty cocoa notes.

The most impressive thing, especially at this price point, is the wine's balance. At 14.9% ABV, it's not hot or boozy like some zins can be. Here, the medium body, fruit, acidity and subtle spice come together in a nice, affordable zinfandel that I'd absolutely drink again. I wish I could say the same about the Pedroncelli petite sirah that was shipped with it, but that's a story for another day.

Grape(s): 100% zinfandel
Producer: Pedroncelli Vineyards
AVA: Dry Creek Valley
Price: $15*
Rating:  (3 out of 5 | Recommended)

*This wine was sent to me for review as a part of my partnership with   the California Wine Club,