Our 2012 Christopher Creek Russian River Valley Zinfandel is our pride & joy. This wine is richly layered, and wonderfully balanced - for such a big, dense and flavor-packed wine. On the nose, the wine expresses chocolate-covered cherry, blackberry and dark boysenberry notes with just a touch of black pepper and caramel. The wine drinks juicy and full, with integrated tannins. On the palate, black raspberry preserves meld with cherry cordial, dark baker’s chocolate, espresso and dusty bramble. The finish is long, vital and packed with flavors that never seem to end.

94 Point Review - Somm & Wine Critic Chris Sawyer The fall months are officially in full swing. So as the football season heats up, the temperature starts to drop outside. Add to this the fact that the other holidays are just around the corner. For these reasons, it’s time to start thinking about getting your hands on a big, bright and juicy style of red wine with a flavor profile that will warm the palates of your guests no matter what the theme of the gathering or party may be.

With this in mind, a great new wine that fits the criteria is the Christopher Creek 2012 Zinfandel from Russian River Valley. With fragrant aromas of ripe blackberries, blueberries, pepper, citrus rind, tobacco and vanilla, this generous wine is sure to capture the attention of guests upon first contact. In addition to the seamless black and blue fruit characteristics; on the palate, the generous flavors continue to expand with fresh and lively notes of black raspberry jam, huckleberry, clove, and a long spicy finish.

For seasonal food pairings, try this wine with hard cheeses, pulled-pork sandwiches, spicy chili, seared duck breast, lamb meatballs, slow roasted meats, hearty stews, and chocolate. Ripe, spicy, jammy and intense, this is a great Zinfandel loaded with personality. Better yet, at a fabulous price that makes it so easy to spread the cheer!