The dark plum-colored 1998 Zinfandel Mendocino Ridge (15.5% alcohol) offers aromas and flavors of smoke, plums, black raspberries, and black currants. Spicy and round, with a supple texture, and a rich, medium to full-bodied, luscious texture, this wine can be drunk over the next 4-5 years. Tel. (707) 547-4751

A nearly outstanding effort from winemaker Van Williamson is the 1997 Zinfandel Mendocino Ridge. Tipping the scales at a whopping 16.3% alcohol, it is a blend from three vineyards - Alden Ranch, Ciapusci, and Zeni. There are just under 600 cases of this big, briery, dense, full-bodied Zinfandel with noticeably high acidity. It should drink well for 2-3 years. (release date 11/00)Tel. (707) 895-3232; Fax (707) 985-3316