Popped and poured; enjoyed over three days. Pretty consistent throughout. The 2020 pours a ruby color with a near opaque core and magenta rim; medium+ viscosity with very light staining of the tears. On the nose, the wine is developing with notes of dark bramble fruit, black pepper, dry earth, dried herbs and soft, baking spices. On the palate, the wine is dry with medium tannins and medium acid. Confirming the notes from the nose. The finish is medium+ with a salt and pepper finish. Been a while since I had Optima’s Zinfandel. Drink now and through 2030. — 2 months ago
Year in, year out this is one of the more reliable values in California Cabernet. I think it’s sort of a second wine of Optima and I’m certain I’ve tried every vintage since 2001 because it rarely disappoints. I used to be able to swoop it for around $17 but it’s closer to $30 retail these days. Nevertheless, great QPR. Popped and poured; consumed over three days and best on Day 3. The 2017 pours deep ruby with an opaque core. The nose black currants, grilled kofta, purple flowers, baking spice and very light pyrazines…almost undetectable. On the palate, dark and red fruits, smoke and baking spice. Dry. Medium tannin; medium acid. Finish is medium…and savory. A totally respectable Tuesday night wine. — 3 years ago
From the Zichron area vineyards. 75% Chardonnay and 25% Margalit Blanc.
Beautiful color, mild nose, mild palate. Balanced. — 2 years ago
Excellent old Zin! Balanced and still a bit of ripe fruits and lots of tertiary notes of forest floor and earth. Think just a bit lower than Optima. — 4 years ago
Lenya Ehrmann
Light fruit, spicy dry — a month ago