Just peachy: Zins to please the taste and budget

Leaving a lot of great wine (and wine trivia) in their wake, we feel fortunate to have been there for a quick virtual visit to Paso Robles via their Wine Country Alliance. It was a whirlwind journey, but well worth it. And one of the often overlooked wines that they wanted to remind us of is their Zinfandel.

We know that the cultivation of Zinfandel is an American thing. That includes Paso Robles. Even though it’s generally agreed that this versatile varietal originated in Croatia, plantings in Paso Robles started in the 1850’s, so the grape is no stranger to their vineyards.

One winery that is taking full advantage of this well-established grape is the Peachy Canyon Winery. With their extensive access to vineyards with a variety of soil conditions and terrains, they have been able to control the Zinfandel’s full potential along with the best.

One of their super value Zinfandels is blended with fruit from 4 of their outstanding vineyards. Although bottles made straight from the individual vineyards cost $30 or more, the blend (Westside) is available for under $20 and is a value at that level.

Westside Zin 2008 has a beckoning bouquet of dark plumb with buttery vanilla overtones and a pleasant minty background. This is definitely a barbeque-friendly wine because its body contains an ample degree of light tannins with a long buttery finish. Considering its price, this is an excellent Zin that is even comparable to selections like Turley’s Dusi Paso Robles Zinfandel. Nice.

If you want it a little “peppery” and even easier on the wallet, pick up their Incredible Red for under $15. Many people expect a Zin to bite back a little with some dusty, earthy spice along with the jammy fruit, and this one delivers. It’s not for everyone, but for those who like it a little hot, and not from the alcohol, this one will fill the bill.

You can find Peachy Canyon Zinfandels at AJs, BevMo, or Total Wine but their stock comes and goes, so call ahead. If you have to put some on order, no biggie, it’s worth it.

Article by Tom Peiffer, Phoenix Wine Shopping Examiner at Examiner.com

View more of Tom’s articles on Examiner.com by visiting his writer’s page.