2009 Robert Biale Zinfandel Grande Vineyard
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2009 Zinfandel Grande Vineyard is another striking wine. It is less obvious than some of the other Zinfandels in the lineup. The Grande Vineyard is deceptively medium in body, but there is plenty of fruit and just as much character in the glass. Mint, tobacco and dried flowers add shades of nuance to the dark red fruit on the refined finish.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
More reviews and scores
The 2009 Zinfandel Grande Vineyard is another striking wine. It is less obvious than some of the other Zinfandels in the lineup. The Grande Vineyard is deceptively medium in body, but there is plenty of fruit and just as much character in the glass. Mint, tobacco and dried flowers add shades of nuance to the dark red fruit on the refined finish. Anticipated maturity: 2012-2017. This lineup from Biale is full of fabulous wines. The Zinfandels in particular are well worth seeking out. Tel. (707) 257-7555
(15.5% alcohol; from vines planted in 1920): Bright red-ruby. Crushed blueberry, black plum, pepper and spices on the slightly high-toned nose; a real essence of zinfandel. Silky on entry, then quite tight and unforthcoming in the middle, showing imploded flavors of black fruits, bitter chocolate and peppery spices. Finishes with very smooth tannins that showed a slightly edgy quality with aeration. Impressive but very young zinfandel, in need of bottle aging.