Reviews & Ratings

2009 Dutton Goldfield Zinfandel "Morelli Lane Vineyard"

Winery: Dutton Goldfield

Vintage: 2009

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Morelli Lane Vineyard"

Wine Category: Zinfandel

Grape blend: 100% Zinfandel

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Russian River Valley

State or country: CA

Price: $40

Cases produced: 214

KWG Score: 91 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)

Review date: June 15, 2011

Wine Review: This very dark ruby colored Zinfandel opens with a mild strawberry and black raspberry bouquet. On the palate, this wine was is light to medium bodied, nicely balanced, and smooth. The flavor profile is a gentle black cherry with a hint of raspberry and light oak. The finish is dry and its well managed fine tannins are very easy going. This is about as elegant as Zin can get. If you want a fruit bomb, look elsewhere. Pair it with a butterflied filet mignon with Hollandaise sauce. Enjoy – Ken

Winemaker Notes: The first impression of the wine is ebullient Zinfandel fruit, but with the nuance, balance and complexity normally reserved for Pinot. In the nose, raspberry, Bing cherry, toffee, and black licorice lead the way. In the mouth, it's like cherry vanilla ice cream, with the raspberry and licorice lending their complementary notes. The wine is notable for its fine tannin structure, and with time in the glass, or with food, the plushness of the wine really comes out. The finish is all sweet caramel/toffee and berry. The bright acidity and moderate alcohol enable the wine to hang together with enticing focus. Few Zins are as versatile with food as this one. It's perfect with all your summer grilling fare, and also the ultimate cheese wine.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Dutton Goldfield 2009 Morelli Lane Zinfandel.