2010 Outpost Zinfandel

The 2011 Zinfandel bursts from the glass with juicy dark cherries, menthol, violets, licorice and tobacco. A beguiling, totally intriguing wine, the 2011 impresses for its fabulous balance and overall harmony. Hints of savory herbs and orange peel lend an element of exoticism that is particularly attractive. This is striking juice.

Another impressive wine, the 2010 Zinfandel has developed beautifully over the last year. Today, the 2010 is rich, dark and intense. The aromas are still very much primary, so readers who like complexity and nuance will have to let this sit in the cellar for another few years. Still, it is impressive. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. Proprietors Frank and Kathy Dotzler, along with their winemaker, Thomas Rivers Brown, don’t miss a beat. There is no shortage of compelling wines among these new and upcoming releases. Readers who want to taste some of the greatest expressions of the 2011 vintage should head straight to Outpost. The 2011s, from a late, cold harvest that stretched into November, are compelling. But the truth is that all of these wines merit serious consideration and a much wider audience. Tel. (707) 965-1718

(15.7% alcohol): Ruby-red. High-pitched berry aromas, with hints of chocolate and licorice. Sweet, lush and creamy, with lovely definition and lift to the red berry flavors. A somewhat cooler style than the 2009, and the better for it. Finishes with sweet, dusty, building tannins. Should make a serious, and seriously rich, bottle of zinfandel.