Sure, we love our Dry Creek Zins. But what about a juicy little fruit bomb of a red blend? This 50+ percent off a 94 pointer made from some often-overlooked varieties is a must try. Yes, we’re urging you to DRINK THE KOOL AID today! No blind faith in a false prophet required. Just remember your Agents won’t lead you astray.

This stuff flipped a switch in Agent Cru. Macho mode activated - “OHHH YEAAAAA!” before he downed the rest of it in seconds. Agent Rhone’s nod affirmed it. Must be a few of those aforementioned grapes that we’ll get to in a minute.

First let’s pay homage to the source. This locals-only discovery comes from a little producer with a long history. Saini Vineyards have been at this a LOOOOOOONG time but unless you’re frequenting Dry Creek Valley, you probably don’t know much about them.

We’re here to change that.

The Sainis are currently grooming their 5th generation in the ways of the vineyard and farming. Hailing originally from Genova, Italy, the family has been at this farming business since Great Grandfather Michele Saini (a former… cough… “Sanitation Engineer” in San Francisco) purchased the property in Sonoma County with his brother-in-law. They grew pears, apples, prunes and (of course) wine grapes.

They built their reputation on the quality of their fruit and at some point (a few generations down the line) thought, we can do this winemaking thing. And Saini Vineyards was born!

With the help of a truly prolific winemaker, of course! Enter Julia Iantosca! If you don’t know the name, you know a lot of her resume, we’re sure. With 40 vintages under her belt, she is a staple in the Northern California wine scene and known for her eye for excellence working with brands like Dry Creek Vineyards, Merry Edwards, Lasseter Family Wines, Gloria Ferrer, and Lambert Bridge. Check her out in more detail here.

Today they are a beacon of value, quality, and tradition. And your Wine Spies Agents are honored to show off this discovery.

We’re not the only ones fangirling over here. With James Suckling praising that “the palate is full-bodied and energetic” this is a no brainer for you savvy Operatives.

This slightly unusual red blend gels together beautifully. Brilliant acidity and ripe red and black plum notes from the Sangiovese play nicely with the natural structure of Carignan’s complex spice and dark fruit tone. All tied together over the backdrop of Grenache’s juicy red fruit profile and decadent richness, and you get one perfectly balanced wine. With years of cellar-worthiness left in it, consider this a “case me” cellar defender that’ll evolve nicely over the coming years.

Though the Saini’s have been doing this for a while. Though large quantities have never been their thing. There is only so much of this to go around so our suggestion… be quick!

94 Points – Sunset International

92 Points – James Suckling “Vibrant and perfumed aromas of red cherries, raspberries, dried herbs, sweet spices and rose petals. The palate is full-bodied and energetic with juicy red fruit, fine tannins and a fresh acidity that keeps the blend lively and balanced. Drink or hold.”