Jonathan Newman:  "This is everything that you want in an old vines Zinfandel from the famed Dry Creek Valley.   This wine captures the essence of why the hillsides in the Dry Creek Valley of Sonoma are best known for high quality Zinfandels and this one has a spectacular QPR (Quality-Price-Ratio). These grapes were handpicked from vines planted between 25 and 40 years old with some dating back to the turn of the twentieth century. The wine was aged in French and American Oak for 11 months and contains a little Petite Sirah. Aromas of blackberries, cherries, and plums open into an alluring full to medium bodied and silky textured Zinfandel. On the palate, bursting with fresh jammy berries, ripe raspberry and blackberry fruit, and spice with well integrated vanilla oak and vibrant acidity. It is a well crafted wine that is ready to enjoy now and will drink well over the next several years. This will pair perfectly with barbeque, steaks, poultry and pork."  Learn more about Jonathan Newman.

Winery:  "Zinfandel was first planted in the Dry Creek Valley more than 100 years ago.  As a small family-owned producer we specialize in small lot production highlighting the distinctive character of each varietal.  Our Old Vines Zinfandel is a full flavored embodiment of that heritage brimming with ripe blackberry fruit and framed by spice and oak.  Limited production."

Wired For Wine:  The Castlebank Zinfandel loves sweet barbecue sauce and barbecued meats, especially ribs and chicken.  If you're already at the grill, a burger is another great companion for the fruit, spice and oak in this truly versatile red.  Mushrooms and onions are very happy around a Zinfandel, so pile them on that burger.  For a more sophisticated meal,  roast duck or lamb go beautifully too.  While you're thinking about it, the jammy intensity of this Zinfandel is fabulous with a rich, strong cheese.  Have a glass with a room temperature Stilton on lightly toasted slices of baguette, and the answer will come to you...  And, if you're really not feeling like cooking today, this is the wine for you!  Make it a takeout night because the berry hit of the Castlebank  is perfect with spicy Asian and Mexican meat dishes.  Arriba!

Size:  750 ml
Vintage:  2007
Varietal:  Zinfandel with a little Petite Sirah
Alcohol:  14.7%
Barrel aging:  11 months in French and American oak
Region:  Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County, California
Production:  Limited