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Renwood, “Sierra Series”, Zinfandel 2002

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Renwood, “Sierra Series”, Zinfandel, Sierra Foothills 2002 ($7.50) – Dark ruby color with an over-ripe raspberry nose, intense raspberry and blackberry flavors with oak and drying tannins, finishing a bit hot. Can’t complain too much at this price, but disappointing given better Zin’s I’ve had from this producer. Score: 7.5/10

Domaine Carneros, “Avant Garde�, Pinot Noir 2003

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Domaine Carneros, “Avant Garde”, Pinot Noir, Carneros 2003 ($19/available only at the winery or online) – Brilliant ruby color, strong black cherry aromas, smooth, but bold, raspberry and cherry flavors with a little dryness on the finish. Could use a year or so to soften up some, but I think this is drinking very well now. On par with Domaine Carneros’ more pricey Pinots. Would have taken the best value in Winecast 32 had I not forgotten about it in the cellar! Score: 8.5/10

A Mano, Primitivo, Puglia 2002

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A Mano, Primitivo, Puglia 2002 ($8) – Maybe it was bottle variation or just the flavors of the other Primitivo challenging this wine in Winecast 17, but my latest bottle really changes my perceptions of this wine. Medium ruby color, intense aromas of blackberry and spice, earthy, but fresh blackberry and plum flavors with a peppery finish and moderate tannins. An excellent value; I’m stocking up! Score: 8.5/10

Ballentine Vineyards, Zinfandel Port 2003

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Ballentine Vineyards, Zinfandel Port, Napa Valley, Estate Grown 2003 ($25/375ml) – Deep garnet color, fresh boysenberry nose, intensely sweet boysenberry flavors but does not taste like 10% RS. Reminiscent of “late harvest” style Zin’s from the 1970’s. Only available at the winery or to wine club members. Score: 8.5/10