An approximately 2,000-case blend of 50% Zinfandel, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and 4% Petit Verdot, the 2007 Antaeus is an attractive, elegant wine with notes of earth, kirsch, raspberry, licorice and spice box. It is medium-bodied, stylish, and ideal for drinking over the next 5-6 years. One of the most reliable producers of Zinfandel in Napa, proprietor Jerry Seps continues to produce very elegant Zinfandels that lean more toward wines with a Pinot Noir sensibility than many other Zinfandels.Tel. (707) 942-5310; www.storybookwines.com

Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot constitute the blend. The flavors are intensely concentrated and ripe in blackberries and currants, with a sweet coating of smoky oak. One off note is heat from alcohol, but richly sauced beef dishes will handle it. ——S.H.(12/31/2011)—— 87