The 2022 vintage Fiano di Avellino from Ciropicariello starts with a rich straw-almost golden color to the eyes and unfolds in time on the nose with abundant floral notes and hints of honey. With a chance to breathe the palate evolves into a surprisingly mouth-coating viscosity that’s held together by its mineral driven heart. It’s a fuller-bodied example of the grape than what I’ve come across before and it earns it. — 2 months ago
Classic Napa zin. Not a overbearing fruit bomb here. A producer who's cut their teeth & knows how to vinify w/ out the added garbage. — 6 years ago
Fresh and salty! Love it! — 3 days ago
Outpost – Zinfandel – 2023
Howell Mountain, Napa Valley, California, USA 🇺🇸
Overview
A powerhouse Zinfandel from the rugged slopes of Howell Mountain. At 16.1% ABV, this wine blurs the line between classic Zin and fortified intensity, bold, muscular, and unapologetically impactful. Rare to find Zinfandel from Howell Mountain, and it shows the terroir’s distinctive stamp.
Aromas & Flavors
Jammy blackberry, black plum, and spiced cherry compote, layered with peppercorn, tobacco leaf, and cocoa nibs. Notes of fig and raisin round out the darker, concentrated fruit profile.
Mouthfeel
Full-throttle and mouth-coating. Explosive fruit upfront followed by fiery spice and dense tannins. Despite its muscle, the wine pulls through with a surprisingly hearty and lasting finish.
Food Pairings
Best with equally bold cuisine: barbecue brisket, lamb shanks, wild boar stew, or intensely spiced dishes. Could also shine next to aged blue cheese.
Verdict
A monster Zin, unapologetic, high-octane, and unforgettable. Not for the faint of heart, but for those who embrace big wines, it delivers a rare and compelling experience.
Did You Know?
Howell Mountain’s volcanic soils and high elevation are usually Cabernet Sauvignon country. Outpost’s decision to plant Zinfandel here makes this bottling one of Napa’s rare mountain Zins, combining Zin’s natural exuberance with Howell’s signature intensity. — 5 days ago
Deep ruby color and great nose. Velvety on palate with rich dark fruits. Soft tannins and a lasting finish. Good blend of Zin, Cab, Petite Syrah, and Syrah. — 4 months ago
Not a great zin but not bad for a sipper. Probably by another. — 5 days ago
Good on Debbie bday party — 3 months ago
Bob McDonald
Pale lemon in colour. From Campania arguably the home of Fiano not forgetting it is also grown in Sicily. Restrained aromas of pear, honeysuckle and apple. Those descriptors coming through on the medium bodied palate finishing dry with stacks of salinity. Refreshing and moreish. — 5 days ago