This labor day weekend (or any weekend for that matter), if you’re getting together with friends and family to enjoy some good,old-fashion BBQ, then our tasting panel has some wines for you.  They’re all reasonably price and tasty. Cheers and enjoy!

Cline 2016 “Ancient Vines” Zinfandel

Grape(s): Zinfandel

Region: Contra Costa, Ca

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

A combination of ripe strawberries and red cherries meld with suggestions of clove and dark chocolate on the nose. Strawberry jam and bing cherry come up front on the palate, followed by brown spice, anise, and chocolate. Offering polished tannins and lush fruit, it’s an ideal Zin for BBQ chicken.

Rating: 90

Carol Shelton 2015 “Piazza” Zinfandel

Grape(s): Zinfandel

Region: Lodi, California

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of plums, cherries, brown spice, and dark chocolate rises up from a glass. Waves of cherries, raspberries, and plums play with highlights of pie crust, all-spice, and cocoa on the palate. Not a bold, peppery Zin, but it’s quite compelling, especially if you enjoy smooth, jammy flavors. Pulled pork will make a lovely pairing.

Rating: 90

Concannon 2016 Petite Sirah

Grape(s): Petite Sirah

Region: Livermore Valley, Ca

Price: 10-15

Tasting Notes:

Blueberries and blackberries intermingle with hints of pepper and bacon on the nose. Ripe blueberry, black cherry, and bramble berry fruit notes play nicely among expressions of spice and herbs on the palate . Polished tannins and a good balance of fruit and non-fruit flavors make this a solid for around $15. Enjoy with BBQ tri-tip.

Rating: 89

Locations “F” 5 Red Blend

Grape(s): Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc

Region: France

Price: 15-20

Tasting Notes:

A bouquet of raspberries, cherries, spice, and cedar greets the senses. Flavors of strawberry, cherry, and raspberry jam play among elements of anise and cigar box on the palate. Lush, yet nicely structured, it’s not like a traditional French blend, but it offers good layers and value. Match it up with BBQ ribs.

Rating: 90