Zinfandel Thoughts

I recently bought a 1976 Sonoma River West Zin 1976 to use at an OL. A recent tasting of the 1977 Mirassou Anniversary Zin, revealed a claret style wine with a briary pizazz. My all time fav. was the 1970 Ridge Jimsomare opened about 1984 as a ringer in a double blind bordeaux tasting, it was mistaken for a 2-5th growth St. Estephe. If I recall only 2 of the 8 or so tasters thought it was from California. The late original owner of Ridge, Dave Bennion arranged the private sale of it to me for $25 from the vineyard manager.

I live in Colorado Springs, and frequent Liquor Outlet which has an amazing collection and Cheers (ditto). Used to be one needed an excursion to Denver to Applejack or "what's-his-name" on Colfax by the Capital to get a good wine selection, but now we've got lots of good stuff available.

But, the more esoteric regions of the world don't turn over on the dealers shelves as well, so while there's a possibility of finding an older vintage treasure, there is also a likelihood of heat, light, vertical storage damage. I seldom buy Italian or Spanish wines off-the-shelf anymore, preferring to go to wine.com, Sam's in Chicago or Zachy's. Mail-order gets me well-handled stock, case lot pricing and often free shipping deals. (Colorado is an enlightened state regarding shipping.)

Ed Rasimus Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret) "When Thunder Rolled" Smithsonian Institution Press ISBN #1-58834-103-8

Good to see you around again Sean; aren't you in COS as well? Yes, you need some Hartford Court for a wonderful zin experience!

Ed, if you do make the trip north to Denver, try Lucas Liquor Superstore near Park Meadows mall in Littleton. It's a lot closer to the Springs than Applejack's or Argonaut's(?). It's one of the best wine shops I have ever frequented, with a large selection, knowledgeable wine staff and good everyday prices. Their Rhone selection is usually pretty good, with some nice Cote-du-Rhones, always some great CDP, and sprinklings of Gigondas, Hermitage, Cote Rotie, etc. My only disclaimer is that I left the state about 5 months ago and do not know if it has changed in that time.

Dark Helmet

Yes, I'm COS as well. I tried to find the Zin you mentioned but of course I found the wrong vintage (2000) and also the wrong vineyard. It looked interesting, but I didn't get it. I went ahead and got the 2001 Howell Mountain Vineyards Zin instead. I haven't tried it yet, but I will post a few notes when I do.

Sean

Visited Charle's Court last night. First time in about six years. Great meal, they've regained some of the old panache. Started with roast quail with fois gras then a "pepper steak" which was a magnificent chunk of cow, but didn't display much "pepper." She who must be obeyed did gravlox which was very well presented and then lamb chops which were declared best she has ever tasted.

Wine choice, from a much improved (more balance, better priced) wine list was a Siduri Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2000. (I know, the lamb and beef should have taken a CA cab or Bordeaux, but I can't resist Siduri). The wine was described by the sommelier, who said he was born in Sonoma County just a few miles from the Russian River Valley, as being full bodied and more Burgundian than a '98 Rochioli RRV that I asked about.

Dark color, nice dark fruit and leather nose, but a bit frizzante for the first half hour. Somewhat watery, slow to open up. Pleasant but abit disappointing. Minimal finish. Black cherry, leather, hint of vanilla.

Wish they had some of the better, single vineyard Siduri bottlings. Maybe I should have gone with the Ch. Talbot.

Ed Rasimus Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret) "When Thunder Rolled" Smithsonian Institution Press ISBN #1-58834-103-8

Charles' Court is very good Ed; I am lucky to live just a couple blocks south and west of the little hotel. My notes from the 2001 Siduri Sonoma County pinot noir were: spicy cherry, oaky nose, roasted black cherry creamy flavor, full bodied, with green peppercorn, cedar, vanilla, hint of coffee; earthy long finish with noticeable tannins. Similar to Cristom's Marjorie Vineyard, but half the price. The 2002 is very good as well, but a little thinner and more heat (15%).