In a blind tasting this wine would be easily
recognizable as a Zinfandel, from its medium ruby colour, but don’t let that
light colour fool you. The nose is very expressive with a rich and fruity
mouthfeel and a explosive flavourful finish, classic Zin. This wine is a blend
of mostly Zinfandel at 89% with Petite Sirah at 10% an Carignan at 1%,
maturation took place in 100% French oak (second and third fill).
This wine opened up with aromas of ripe berries,
plum, fresh herbs, black pepper, vanilla and cinnamon notes. On the mouthfeel,
medium-full bodied with delicious forward fruit flavours, crisp acidity and
silky tannins. This Zin finish is very long, spicy, fruit focused with light
tannins and a bit of heat from the 14.9% alcohol. Just a beautiful and well
made juicy red here with great purity of fruit and carefully restrained oak.
I don’t often have the words California and good
value in the same sentence but Artezin Zinfandel 2010 certainly qualifies
as a very good value. Strongly recommended, score 91 points.
Purchased September 29, 2012 LCBO New Release
(302943) at $21.95.
