The 1997 Zinfandel George Hendry Vineyard Reserve reveals abundant quantities of new oak in its moderately-endowed, evolved, spicy, smoky, berry-scented nose. The color is an attractive dark plum/ruby, and the wine possesses lots of texture. I would still opt for drinking it over the next 2-3 years since it is not that exceptionally concentrated. Tel. (510) 865-7007

Almost two years in French oak has left a strong imprint on this wine—a menthol and chocolate edge that plays an almost equal role to the strong red-raspberry fruit. Some oak tannins on the finish indicate short-term aging. Try in 2001.——J.C.(2/1/2000)—— 86