04 Howell Mountain Zinfandel

The nose on this wine is filled with black raspberries, coffee and pepper. The flavor explodes with multiple layers of dark fruit and a broad spectrum of spices. Each sip brought something new to the palate. The back palate savored the flavor for at least a minute or two. This wine actually got better as it continued to opened up. Truly one of the best Napa Valley zins that I've tasted in some time. The price tag on this sinful demon is 25-30 bones... One note..I researched this wine and printed out five random reviews...none of them were the same, which speaks volumes to the versatility of this zin. The only things that all five had in common .......1-Delicious 2-Keep plenty around to share.

I rate this wine 8 bigbecks out of ten.

Beck

I called Tony at Carriage House Wines last week and told him that my wife and I were throwing a baby shower and needed a red wine that is extremely drinkable no matter what was on the buffet table. He, as usual, did an outstanding job of pointing me in the right direction. This nose on this wine is fresh plums and crushed bing cherries. What I really loved about this wine was the color. It was the color of strawberry starburst candy. For the price (about 12 bones), this wine was outstanding. Even the young wine neophytes that were at the shower (normally beer drinkers) commented on how good the wine was. If this wine can withstand a year or two in the cellar, I will be purchasing a case this week to put away.

I rate this wine 6.9 bigbecks out of 10

I rate the value/flavor ratio 9.5 bigbecks out of 10

Beck

Robert Mondavi Oakville District Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Speaking of Oakville, here is one that started it all and even though the name has become very commercial, it can still deliver the juice. It has all the characteristics of a great cabernet. This is a BIG red from the nose to the finish. It is a little tannic even after decanting, but still powerful and mouthwatering. This Oakville Mondavi is one of the few wines that I have had where after it is gone, you can still taste it 15-30 minutes later because of the intense blackberry, tar, dirt, and other mindboggling smells and tastes. I do not often spend this kind of dough on a bottle, but when I do I like to know that it can deliver the goods. This is actually one that you could put away for 5 years and it would probably be better than it is now, but I am an impatient wine drinker who would rather drink than hold.

I give this wine 8 out of 10 bigbecks.

04 Downing Family Vineyards Cabernet

Another Oakville beauty!

This wine starts off with a luscious nose of chocolate covered raspberries and star anise. This wine is as smooth and drinkable as any wine that I've ever had the privilege of tasting. The soft tannins, mild oak, wild berries and cocoa flavors come alive after 30 minutes of breathing. The vibrant flavor last for a good minute after it has left the palate. I have also had their Zin which is a strong effort, but nothing compared to the Cab. I know that Rigby will love this one due to its Oakville lineage..

I rate this wine 8.5 bigbecks out of 10

Beck

06 Orin Swift " The Prisoner" Zin Blend

This wonderful wine is a household favorite. I cannot say it better than this"

"The 2006 blends the lush berry flavors of Zinfandel, the power and concentration of Cabernet Sauvignon, the dark black fruit of Syrah, the intensity and structure of Petite Sirah, the flesh of Charbono, and a hint of Grenache - all combined for a decadent wine with great complexity."

The Prisoner has gone from a " Cult" wine to a highly sought after vino for the cellar. I have had the 05, 06, 07 and all of the vintages outperform any other Zin blend in the industry. Age potential is 6-10 years.

I give this wine a consistent 7.5 bigbecks out of 10

beck