We love ‘em Codenames for every mission we take on. Sometimes they take inspiration to find when in the glass, sometimes some perspiration is what it takes to find a good one buried deep into a story, and sometimes they happen to be just there, right in front of your nose. ‘Big Bertha’ came out the easy way. The Wine Advocate tasting note likening this to the mightiest artillery in history was all we needed to hear… KABOOM!

What’s fascinating is that the praise below was written 4 years ago, so Big Bertha has morphed into the silkiest, smoothest, sweetest Zin possible. It’s TAKEN OFF to the stars, leaving us mesmerized…

The invitingly deep fire brick core leads to a wide scarlet-carmine circumference. The aroma is all about that classic brambly wild berry basket, backed by brandy-cinnamon steeped plums. Bursts of raspberry jam define the initial palate, joined by rum-raisin cake and a hint of Worcestershire sauce. The finish is akin to a satin, plush pillow one lands into, this Zin caresses the palate as if no end in sight. Begging for traditional Southern BBQ, if not a long-simmered stew or a pumpkin curry, as ideal pairings.

Saxon Brown proprietor Jeff Gaffner has a storied career, starting at Chateau St. Jean where he led the team responsible for a Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year. He’s also highly regarded consultant for Ram’s Gate, Black Kite and several other high-profile producers. His reputation means access to great vineyards such as Rosella’s, Gap’s Crown, Sangiacomo, Durell, or Parmelee-Hill, as in this case, a trusted source for makes such as Kistler, Ram’s Gate, and Steele.

As Robert Parker attested to, “I have had these wines year in and year out, and Saxon Brown turns out outstanding efforts. Moreover, their prices are not out of line, especially at this level of quality.”

That kind of praise is on the $40 original retail price here, then what about our 40% off deal today?! Nuts, just nuts, so calling all Zinfandel nuts, you don’t want to miss this one!

Fair warning, these were the very last few left at the winery library, will go fast…

90 Points – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate

“The 2014 Zinfandel Stonewall Block has a deep garnet-purple color and nose of baked plums, blackberries and black cherry cordial with hints of licorice, balsamic and hoisin. The palate reveals a Big Bertha of a wine with a full-on full body and tons of ripe black berry preserves fruit supported by velvety tannins and finishing with a wall of spice. Drink 2017-2022.”