Spice and chocolate notes gradually give way to more plum and berry flavors as the wine sits in the glass. Ripe, berryish fruit on the palate, finishing a touch warm and tannic.——W.E.(8/1/2005)—— 89

Medium-bodied with moderate tannins, the wine shows hints of cherry and menthol flavors. Toasty and smoky on the finish.——W.E.(11/1/2003)—— 85

The winery’s finest stuff is varietally intense, with brambly, wild berry and tobacco flavors accented by pepper and clove. It’s also quite tannic, with a raisiny roughness that time may soften. At 15% alcohol, the finish is hot. ——S.H.(9/1/2003)—— 87

Cuts an elegant profile, with its ripe blackberry fruit and judicious use of oak. Supple and even, it shows good balance. The pepper, chocolate and licorice-tinged finish is long, with fine tannins. It’s a big wine, but not awkward, showing depth and style.——W.E.(8/1/2001)—— 90

De Loach produced seven Zinfandels in 1995, all of which merit considerable interest. They are powerful yet accessible Zinfandels with alcohols ranging from 15% to 17.5%. Remarkably, they possess the concentration and ripe fruit necessary to conceal the alcohol - at least for the next several years. The dry, full-bodied 1995 Zinfandel O.F.S. (16.5% alcohol) possesses layers of briery, rich berry fruit, excellent purity, fine spice, and a lusty, high alcohol, rich, layered finish. Already delicious, this is a textbook Zinfandel made in a big, bold, ostentatious style. It should drink well for 5-6 years. Kudos to De Loach for turning out such an impressive portfolio of 1995s!Tel. (707) 526-9111