Oh, reliable, fantastical Peterson Winery. How we’ve come to adore your consistently wonderful wines.

Today’s Peterson Winery 2013 “Old School” Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel knocks it out of the park. This value-priced wine is a Dry Creek Valley gem that will satisfy choosy Zin lovers - without breaking the bank.

This Zin is a bright crimson with light-medium density and excellent clarity. It’s got exactly the nose you’d expect from the label, a classic brambly Zin with blackberry, vanilla, and gingerbread with an interesting floral twist most like lilac. The palate presents with more red berry notes of freeze-dried raspberries, strawberry jam, and cherry compote. But there’s also an interesting note of black tea with cardamom. It’s light and easy to drink with nice alcohol and acidity to give the fruit a lift. This calls for an American classic, like backyard hamburgers, made by hand, with all the fixings.

Made from a delicious blend of Zinfandel (85%), Petite Sirah (9%) and, Peterson’s other signature varietal, Carignane (6%), this wine hails from some of the finest vineyard sources that the winery has access to. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

85% Zinfandel, from the following vineyards:

39% Borkow Vineyard

30% West Vineyard

16% Bradford Mtn. Vineyard

Other varietals -

9% Petite Sirah, Clendenen Vineyard

6% Carignane, Forchini Vineyard

As for the family that makes this wine, grower Fred Peterson has been growing grapes and making Peterson wines in California for the last quarter century. Fred’s son, Jamie, literally grew up in the winery, shadowing his father and learning the craft from a very young age. Fred, who now focuses on growing, has handed the winemaking over to Jamie who, for the last several vintages, has been crafting one remarkable and delicious Peterson wine after another.

Thanks for 11 great years, Peterson! We love you guys!