2007 Ravenswood "Old Hill" Sonoma Valley Zinfandel

96 points & 3 puffs Connoisseurs' Guide: "A throwback to another era, this venerable vineyard with its blend of Zinfandel and other varieties has been producing big, rich, deep wines for decades-and this dramatic effort from 2007 is one of the best. It has typically separated itself from its siblings by being the least open of the bunch, and here again, it is not particularly outgoing in aroma but starts with the blackberry focus of the variety and adds layers of rich, complex notes of cocoa, black plums and raspberry preserves and follows through on the palate with tight somewhat polished, balanced flavors that..." (01/10)95 points Wine Enthusiast: " You can quibble with the price, but there’s no doubt about the quality of this Zin. It’s extraordinarily deeply flavored, offering waves of wild cherries, cola, anise, molé sauce, pepper spice and sandalwood, wrapped into profoundly fine tannins, and with a long, dry finish. Drink this near-perfect Zinfandel over the next six years." (03/10) 94-95 points Stephen Tanzer's International Wine Cellar: "Bright ruby. Stony, strikingly precise aromas of redcurrant, raspberry, graphite and iron filings, with a suave undercurrent of pungent incense. A strong floral note gains strength with air and carries onto the palate, adding complexity to the zesty red berry and cherry flavors. Tangy blood orange and mineral qualities linger on the impressively pure, focused finish. I really like this wine's balance and graceful touch." (May/june 09)