True to Amador’s brawnier style, this Zin is still tightly tannic but shows ripe black cherry and blackberry flavor with plenty of dark chocolate and cocoa powder. Made from old-vine, sustainably grown grapes, it’s priced fairly and should open with age. Pair with a thick piece of meat. ——V.B.(12/31/2011)—— 87

Give this young, fruity wine a few years in the cellar. The flavors are all primary blackberry, blueberry and cherry jam. The tannins and a touch of espresso bitterness might easily help this Zin develop through 2012.——S.H.(5/1/2010)—— 87