The similarly colored, dense ruby/purple 2008 Zinfandel Home Ranch has big, sweet black raspberry, black cherry and earthy undertones and a multi-dimensional, rich, dense mouthfeel. This superb Zinfandel continues the great success Seghesio has had with this varietal. A big Zinfandel but eminently drinkable already, this wine should continue to evolve for another 5-6 years, although its virtues are its exuberance, gorgeous fruit, and fragrance, which are best appreciated in its exuberant youthfulness. Among the great Italian heritage families in Northern California (and there are many of those), Seghesio continues to set a high standard for quality and attractive value. Tel. (707) 433-3579; Fax (707) 433-0545

An awesome Zinfandel that shows how delicious the variety can be in the right hands. The wine is unusually complex for Zin, showing not only its briary wild berry flavors but deeper, terroir-driven notes of minerals. The tannins are strong but very fine, while crisp acidity provides balance. Definitely hot in the finish, but fiery barbecue will be a perfect pairing.——S.H.(12/31/2010)—— 92