US Wines

Alexander Valley, California
14.0 % Alcohol
Tasted 2014-12-07 & 2015-02-14

Surprisingly deep and dark cherry red with some ripeness tones at the rims. Aromas of dark, ripe fruits; not so typical for Zins. A little bit of cinnamon and cold black tea. Sensationally fruity. Some bitterness due to the still present alcohol at the beginning which is flowing away after a while. Long, very long finish. Incredibly good.

As you can see by the tasting dates I used the Coravin for the first tasting. Two months later the wine was still in nearly the same condition. Perhaps not as fresh as the first two glasses, but this could also be a result of my palate:-). In total again a confirmation of my thesis that Zins usually are drunk too young. Pair this beauty with goat cream cheese. And drink it now.

Russian River Valley, Sonoma, California
14.5 % Alcohol
Tasted 2015-02-06

Deep, dark cherry red with brilliant glimmer. Wonderful intensive aroma of cherries, some bacon, dark chocolate and a hint of tobacco. Very pleasant. In the mouth fruity and fresh, but also very concentrated. Vibrant. Some Black Forest cake tones which you can find very often in Syrahs with first maturity notes. Excellent. Very long finish where again the cherry notes are dominating. And all the time the freshness of the wine is noticeable. A wonderful Syrah.

I bought this bottle in a very remarkable store near San Diego - the San Diego Wine Co. The slogan there is "the BEST Wines - the LOWEST Prices!" which is really true. The shop is located in an industrial area and looks from outside not very spectacular. Inside the shop the wines are sold directly from boxes, no expensive interieur. But the selection and the prices are remarkable. This special Trione was on clearance sale. Half price as from the vineyard. I wish I had taken all bottles with me back to Germany. Trione will be visited during one of my next trips. Definitely.

This wine is just at the beginning but already in a fantastic condition. It will hold this quality another five years minimum. In Germany we have a traditional dish called "Sauerbraten" (braised beef, marinated in vinegar). I could bet that this pairing would be stunning.