2010 Quivira Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley

(made from fruit grown in the Grist and Katz/Abscher vineyards; includes 14% carignan, 7% cabernet sauvignon, 2% syrah and 1% petite sirah): Inky ruby. Seductive aromas of raspberry, cinnamon and lavender, with a smoky mineral overtone. Sappy red fruit flavors are firmed and lifted by bitter pomegranate and orange zest notes, with slow-building spiciness adding complexity. The persistent, vibrant finish repeats the red fruit and spice notes and shows an almost pinot-like character. Decidedly graceful for zin and drinking very well right now.