Last year, we named Nils Venge our Winemaker of Year, during our annual Wine Spies Wine Intrigue Awards period. We recognized Nils for his excellence, consistency and style; his wines are also some of the most beloved among our faithful Operatives.

High in the Red Hills of Lake County Nils makes his Cougars Leap wine from his high-elevation, obsidian soil vineyards. With these wines, he strives for exceptional quality - at an exceptional price. Does that sound familiar?

Today’s 2008 Cougars Leap Zinfandel, which is planted on St. George rootstock, is a big, smoky, delicious wine that begs to be enjoyed with smoky-sweet BBQ or a pepper crusted steak.

Decant for best results and enjoy your bottles over the next several years.