There is no doubting the style sought by St. Francis. No-holds-barred, big, oaky, full-throttle Zinfandels are the rule at this Sonoma winery. The 2001 Zinfandel Old Vine is impressive. A dark plum/purple color is accompanied by a big, smoky, earthy nose revealing aromas of pepper, black cherries, and earth. This spicy, dense, full-bodied, macho Zin should be drunk over the next four years. Tel. (707) 833-4666

Smooth and ripe, with plum, cherry, blackberry, cassis and chocolate flavors at the fore. Tannins are a tad rustic, but the wine is quite pleasurable to drink.——W.E.(11/1/2003)—— 88