Today's recommended wine
Artezin, 2007 Zinfandel Mendocino County, $18
The name sorta tells it all: Art of Zinfandel. Well, something like that. It's a product of Hess in Napa Valley, which looked to add a Zinfandel to its line. Considering Hess winemaker Randle Johnson is in charge, it's a dandy. This Zin has intensely flavored, raisin-like flavors that express the maturity of older vines. Tannins are creamy and smooth. The nose explodes with ripe raspberry, cherry and blackberry aromas, buoyed by nutmeg and rosemary. Flavors are concentrated, and like smooth milk chocolate on the palate. Alcohol is almost 15 percent. It's big and beefy, but not overpowering. Pour it with burgers with some fat in them, or pizza, or ribs that ooze flavor. It's a very opulent, lush wine.
