I found it! Well not exactly, but I’m getting closer. In my search for the perfect Zinfandel to replace the Rosenblum, Planchon Vineyards bottle I had a few years ago and was pure heaven, I had a bottle of a close second last night with dinner. For dinner I had the old standby, a bottom round roast that simmered all day in the crockpot to go along with the wine.

I opened a bottle of Peirano Estate Vineyards, Old Vine Zinfandel, the Heritage Collection, vintage 2012. It is a Lodi, California appellation with 14.0% alcohol. The color in the glass was a dark red, but not as dark as some Zinfandels I’ve tasted, a little like a Pinot Noir, but a bit darker. As soon as I poured the glass I was a bit skeptical because of the color. I stuck my nose in the glass and smelled a waft of dark fruit, no alcohol which was a little surprised because of the 14% alcohol content. Then came the first taste. I could taste blackberry and cherry notes. It was smooth and had that jammy taste that I’ve been looking for. It was soft and smooth and of so drinkable.

The cost of the wine is quite tasty too, under $15 a bottle. Peirano Vineyards can be found online at http://www.peirano.com. This is definitely a wine I will buy again and multiple bottles this time.