Yes, I’m still alive and YES, I’m still drinking wine. Here’s proof – an empty bottle of Fair Oaks Ranch Zinfandel Reserve 2005. A recent local Groupon deal netted me $75 at Wine Insiders, an online wine-monger with a similar price-vs.-quality philosophy as Barriques, for only $25. I ended up with 6 bottles in the $10-$12 range for only $30, including shipping. While I wasn’t familiar with any of the wines I ended up with, at $5 a bottle, I wasn’t out much either way. After Sumptuary opened my eyes to the raw power of the California Zinfandel, I had to delve deeper into the grape.
Fair Oaks Ranch Zinfandel Reserve 2005
Varietal: 100% Zinfandel
Vitals: 12.5% abv
Company Line: *crickets*
My take: deep ruby in the glass. Jammy blackberry and black cherry play off spice and cedar in the nose. Wild berries and bramble dominate the fore-palate with leathery tannins and a hint of pepper bringing home a long, dry finish.
This Zin is a lot tighter and dryer than I tend to prefer, but it nonetheless hits the standard notes of the varietal. Probably not an example that I’d revisit, but more accessible for those who prefer a more straightforward, mellowed-out red.
Thanks for the review. I was glad to see that someone else tried out this wine from the Groupon deal. Price-wise it’s hard to complain, but overall, not an impressive Zinfandel. A little earthier than I prefer, and a thin finish.
Precisely my thoughts. Not what I’m looking for in a zin.
Thank you for the review of this zin. Did you try any of the other wines from this wine insiders on-line offer? Thanks for your insights. always looking for the best drinkable zin or cab here in Colorado. Hope you have a great day. Jon
Yeah! Thanks! I’m planning to buy some from there too since I got the deal too. Any recommendations??? please!!!! I’m lost! I tried to check some of the wines online but so far I haven’t got anything…
Thanks