The most limited production wine is the 2008 Zinfandel Valsecchi Vineyard. Cherry notes are intermixed with herbs, spice and pepper in this medium-bodied, elegant, almost Pinot Noir-like Zinfandel. The aromas are followed by a medium-bodied wine that is fresh, lively, vibrant, and best drunk over the next 2-3 years. There is always a remarkable array of wines from Biale Vineyards. This family has been farming Zinfandel in Napa since 1937, and the wines consistently are among the highlights in my Zinfandel tastings. All of these wine generally have production levels of 200 to 500 cases, with the exception of the Valsecchi, which is only 47 cases, and the Black Chicken, which is nearly 2,600 cases.Tel. (707) 257-7555

Aromas reminiscent of the Nori seaweed wrapper used in sushi restaurants jump from the glass of the 2005 Zinfandel Valsecchi Vineyard. In the mouth, the wine tastes somewhat superficial, finishing with tart acidity and little fruit or extract. Biale, one of the two or three finest Zinfandel producers in California, has done exceptionally well in the 2005 vintage, a mediocre to poor year for this varietal. That speaks loudly about Biale’s abilities as I tasted through nearly 300 Zinfandels, and very few could be recommended. In short, there was not enough heat in the 2005 growing season for Zinfandel to fully ripen.Tel. (707) 257-7555; Fax (707) 257-0105

Although superficial and one-dimensional, the 2001 Zinfandel Valsecchi Vineyard (16% alcohol) is attractively soft, fruity, and easy to understand. Possessing a less saturated color than some of its siblings, it should be drunk over the next 2-3 years. Tel. (707) 257-7555

A new vineyard experience for me, the 1999 Zinfandel Valsecchi Vineyard (15.2% alcohol) exhibits an impressively saturated ruby color as well as a sumptuously sweet nose of pure black fruits infused with floral and blueberry characteristics. It possesses a Pomerol-like lushness, berry fruit (cherries, blueberries, and blackberries), full body, and a seamless personality. While it will not make old bones, it will provide compelling drinking over the next 4-6 years. This is a terrific example of Zinfandel.Tel. (707) 257-7555