Leaf & Vine Zinfandel "Quartz Block" Amador 2013

Tiny Napa Valley winery Leaf & Vine gets their Zin grapes from Gold Country in the Sierra Foothills. Ripe and heady, this Zinfandel smells & tastes of cherry liqueur, ruby port, anise, cocoa and black pepper. It's a mouthful: very ripe and "showy" while maintaining balance ("Almost too much flavor," we say). Great with full-flavored, grilled meats.