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Cline 2016 "Ancient Vines" Zinfandel
Winery: Cline
Grape(s): Zinfandel
Region: Contra Costa, California
Year: 2016
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: n/a
Price: 10-15

Review:
A combination of ripe strawberries and red cherries meld with suggestions of clove and dark chocolate on the nose. Strawberry jam and bing cherry come up front on the palate, followed by brown spice, anise, and chocolate. Offering polished tannins and lush fruit, it's an ideal Zin for BBQ chicken.
Rating: 90

Carol Shelton 2015 "Piazza" Zinfandel
Winery: Carol Shelton
Grape(s): Zinfandel
Region: Lodi, California
Year: 2015
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: n/a
Price: 10-15

Review:
A bouquet of plums, cherries, brown spice, and dark chocolate rises up from a glass. Waves of cherries, raspberries, and plums play with highlights of pie crust, all-spice, and cocoa on the palate. Not a bold, peppery Zin, but it's quite compelling, especially if you enjoy smooth, jammy flavors. Pulled pork will make a lovely pairing.
Rating: 90

Concannon 2016 Petite Sirah
Winery: Concannon
Grape(s): Petite Sirah
Region: Livermore Valley, California
Year: 2016
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: n/a
Price: 10-15

Review:
Blueberries and blackberries intermingle with hints of pepper and bacon on the nose. Ripe blueberry, black cherry, and bramble berry fruit notes play nicely among expressions of spice and herbs on the palate . Polished tannins and a good balance of fruit and non-fruit flavors make this a solid for around $15. Enjoy with BBQ tri-tip.
Rating: 89

Locations "F" 5 Red Blend
Winery: Landmark Vineyards
Grape(s): Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc
Region: France
Year: n/a
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: n/a
Price: 15-20

Review:
A bouquet of raspberries, cherries, spice, and cedar greets the senses. Flavors of strawberry, cherry, and raspberry jam play among elements of anise and cigar box on the palate. Lush, yet nicely structured, it's not like a traditional French blend, but it offers good layers and value. Match it up with BBQ ribs.
Rating: 90