Rosenblum gets in trouble with this bottling when he lets the ripeness level run amok, and the wine turns Porty. The ’06 starts with an aroma of caramelized blackberry pie filling, then turns hot in the mouth, even though the official alcohol is only 14.7%. Finishes as sweet as a berry and chocolate power bar. ——S.H.(12/1/2008)—— 84

The outstanding, deep ruby/purple-tinged 2005 Zinfandel Monte Rosso Vineyard possesses a beautiful minerality along with loads of crushed pepper, raspberry, black cherry, loamy soil, and graphite characteristics. This deep, rich, full-bodied, impressive 2005 can be enjoyed over the next 3-4 years. The ever reliable Kent Rosenblum continues to turn out a portfolio of delicious Zinfandels. Along with Napa’s Biale family and a short list of other North Coast producers, Rosenblum Cellars is as good as it gets when it comes to Zinfandel.Tel. (877) GR78-ZINS