This is a good price for a wine of this caliber. Rich and thick in jammy cherry, mocha and spice flavors, dry, and with ripe, sweet tannins. It’s rather hot in alcohol, but that’s what Zin lovers like with ribs slathered in sauce.——S.H.(12/31/2004)—— 86

Spicy, bright raspberry and cherry notes are most evident here. Tannins are fairly ripe and firm, while the finish serves up a toasty vanilla edge.——W.E.(11/1/2003)—— 87

I don’t know how Rosenblum does it! With so many different Zinfandel bottlings, the Rhone Ranger category, standard Bordeaux varietals as well as a few whites, it is remarkable that his wines seem to get better and better regardless of vintage conditions. This is the twenty-fifth rendition of this stunning wine value that is better than many full-throttle Zinfandels that sell for twice the price. The non-vintage Zinfandel Vintner’s Cuvee XXV exhibits a deep ruby color in addition to a beautifully sweet nose of black cherries, raspberries, pepper, earth, and spice. Rich and medium-bodied, with soft tannin and well-integrated acidity, this beauty will drink well for 2-3 years. Frugal-minded consumers are likely to make case purchases.Tel. (510) 865-7007

Zinfandel enthusiasts have long admired the amazing job Rosenblum Cellars does with such a diverse array of Zinfandel grapes. In 1994, Rosenblum has again hit the jackpot with a bevy of textbook Zinfandels.Year in and year out one of the best values in Zinfandel is the N.V. Vintner's Cuvee Zinfandel. This year's offering, XII, is a dark ruby/purple-colored wine with plenty of peppery, jammy black-cherry and raspberry fruit, medium to full body, a fleshy texture, wonderful sweetness and generosity, and a low acid, soft finish. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. NOTE: All the wines in this article were tasted in May, 1996.Tel. (510) 865-7007

Shrewd consumers looking for a great bargain should check out the N.V. Vintner's Cuvee. It is loaded with delicious super-ripe berry fruit, displays a soft texture, and a mouthfilling, generous finish. Drink it over the next 2-3 years. This winery has endeared itself to Zinfandel fans for its luscious, intensely fruity, rich, full-bodied style of winemaking. Interestingly, the owner of Rosenblum Cellars is also a veterinarian, but no dogs are to be found in his current portfolio. Tel. 415-865-7007.