Medium garnet in color, the 2007 Zinfandel Vellutini Ranch has a very pretty nose of red fruit preserves-raspberry jam and cranberry sauce-with kirsch, potpourri, oolong tea and cinnamon stick nuances plus a touch of fallen leaves. It delivers a wonderfully Rubenesque palate with a gorgeous velvety texture and harmonizing freshness, finishing very long and fragrant.

(16.3% alcohol) Ruby-red. Very pure aromas of wild strawberry, raspberry, Asian spices and fresh rose; this smells like a pinot noir, and betrays zero heat. Lively red berry flavors are underscored by zesty minerals and given bite by a late note of licorice. Turns spicier on the finish, which strongly echoes the sweet red fruit and floral notes. This wine's elegance came as a shock to me.

Rich, ripe and luscious, with bold aromas mocha, cherry and spice and layered flavors of blackberry pie, toast and licorice that lead to plush tannins. This is a bit shy on acidity, but so flavorful it's hard to begrudge. Drink now through 2015. 375 cases made.