Angel Vine Zinfandel Columbia Valley 09

2009 Wine Enthusiast - 91 points - Angel Vine sources excellent fruit, and makes what is arguably the most hedonistic, California-style Zinfandel in the Northwest. Here blended with 13% Primitivo, the sweet and liquorous berry fruit flavors are deep and luxurious. Buttressed with juicy natural acidity, this wine does not show its 14.8% alcohol. - P.G.

2008 Vintage Tasting Notes

A blend of Zinfandel from Avery, Les Collines, and StoneTree vineyards with a splash of Primitivo and a touch of Petit Sirah; Red and black raspberry flavors, spice, and a bit of tannic grip.

Nose of dried tea, chocolate, and dark berries. Fruit forward with blackberry, earth, and tobacco flavors... zin-berry briar patch. As a young wine, the 18% Primitivo is making its presence known by adding to the early drinkability and freshness of the wine. The 6% Petit Sirah adds spice, spine, and grip. - the winery

A legal dispute with another winery led to a change from the winery's first name, "Three Angels" to "Angel Vine".

2007 Vintage Tasting Notes

Three Angels Columbia Valley Zinfandel Avery Vineyard 07 is a "Wow". Lush scents of plum and black cherry introduce big, rich cherry, plum, berry, bramble, white pepper, and mixed sweet spice flavors. Compares quite well to $40 Zinfandels, and it's balanced - it has structure as well as over-the-top Zinfandel style. Very reminiscent of a Dry Creek Zinfandel, at half the price.

Serve this Zinfandel with rubbed pork loin, braised ribs, and spicy pizza. Drink now through 2011. Awarded a Gold Medal at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. Only 188 cases produced.

Vineyard sources for fruit: 100% Avery Vineyard, Columbia Valley (grown near Maryhill Orchards overlooking the Columbia River near the eastern mouth of the Gorge)

100% Zinfandel, harvested at the beginning of October. The 2007 harvest occurred on Oct 7 at a Brix of 23.8 degrees and a pH of 3.42. Barrel influence: 25% New 75% used French Oak Barrels (various coopers).