We’d like to shake the hands of the fearless grape growers that tended the rocky hillsides where this Edmeades 2013 ‘Perli Vineyards’ Mendocino Ridge Zinfandel was born. This expressive and powerful wine is Zinfandel at its finest, begging the question of whether Mendocino Ridge is the king of Zin AVAs. Perli vineyard gives the craggy hillsides of the Mosel a run for its money with boulder strewn, rugged terrain where the vines plunge their roots deep. Other quirks such as a high altitude and proximity to the ocean, produce some intensely flavorful fruit. Ben Salazar does an impeccable job respecting this mighty terroir and the results speak for themselves.

Like staring into the crown jewel on some king’s scepter, it gleams with a dark ruby hue with beautiful clarity. You’ll fall in love with its bouquet, which is deep and spicy, perfumed with notes of maraschino cherry, amaretto, plum compote, and molasses. The fruit is pumped up on the palate with bright red fruit of cherry and strawberry leading the explosive charge. Followed closely on the heels is a torrent of cola, sassafras and rhubarb. Boom! Classic Nor Cal Zin: An iron fist in a velvet glove. It packs a punch, but is so approachable and delicious that you hardly notice this is a gigantic wine. Perfectly paired with a plate of ribs piled high, slightly charred and drenched in an IPA based BBQ sauce.

Hands-down, this is one of the best bottles of Zin you’ll pop this year, and for under $20, this is a no-brainer.

Here’s what the wine press has to say:

91 Points - Wine Enthusiast - “Concentrated, bright and focused fruit flavors feel shaped by a moderate oak influence in this full-bodied and nicely structured wine. A good amount of tannin wraps the raspberry and blackberry flavors in a firm texture.”