2007 Williams Selyem Zinfandel Forchini Vineyard
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Tasting notes
The 2007 Zinfandel Forchini Vineyard (14.8% alcohol) displays a dense ruby/purple color along with aromas of brambleberries, jammy strawberries, earth, wood spice, and pepper. Full-bodied, rich, and powerful, it is a youthful, yet striking Zinfandel that should last for 8-10 years. The single vineyard Pinot Noirs are made from a wide range of California vineyards, primarily in the north, with Russian River and Sonoma Coast dominating, but there is also an Anderson Valley site (Ferrington), San Benito site (Vista Verde), and Yorkville Highlands (Weir). The Chardonnays are nearly as powerful as the Zinfandels in terms of alcohol strength, ranging from 14.5% to 14.8%. Tel. (707) 433-6425; Fax (707) 433-6546
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Dark ruby. Powerful, youthful aromas of black and blue fruits, cherry-cola, dried flowers and musky spices. Deep, chewy cassis and blueberry flavors are firmed by serious tannins and given energy by a late snap of zesty minerals. Gains weight with air and finishes with a strong echo of sweet blueberry. I'd serve this wine with the richest red meat dishes, or, even better, with some pungent, funky cheeses.
About the producer
Williams Selyem is an iconic Russian River Valley winery best known for its Pinot Noir. Producing restrained yet classically Californian expressions of the heartbreak grape (as well as a host of other wines), the property has gone from pioneer to one of the region’s standard-bearers.