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Sonoma County's diverse geography and microclimates make the area an ideal home for a variety of red grapes and styles. Pinot Noir and Zinfandel are the region's calling cards, but Cabernet Sauvignon is also emerging as a contender. All three grapes take center stage in this week's selection, hailing from some of the region's top subappellations.
Two different styles of Zinfandel from Alexander Valley top the list. Goldschmidt made a charmingly briary version that finishes with the grape's classic zesty character. In contrast, Dashe's wine from the Todd Brothers Ranch in Geyserville was fermented using native yeasts and shows a more elegant side of Zinfandel.
Taken was founded by childhood friends Josh Phelps and Carlo Trinchero, who grew up in the wine industry together. The winery's Pinot Noir proves that you don't have to spend a lot to find good quality in Sonoma. Launched in 2009 (and sold to Trinchero Family Estates in 2017), the brand got its moniker when the vintners realized all of the good winery names were already … taken.
Cabernet fans can also find a solid value from Roth, which is hitting its stride with the grape, offering enticing quality at an affordable price.
DASHE Zinfandel Alexander Valley Todd Brothers Ranch Old Vines 2015
Polished and elegantly complex, with plump cherry, white pepper and smoky dill accents that glide on a sleek finish. Drink now through 2023. 287 cases made.
GOLDSCHMIDT Zinfandel Alexander Valley Fidelity Nick Goldschmidt Railyard 2016
Charmingly briary, with lively wild berry, cracked pepper and dried sage flavors that finish on a zesty accent. Drink now through 2023. 348 cases made.
HOLDREDGE Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2016
Plush, showing refined spiciness to the fresh-crushed red fruit and wild berry flavors. Creamy midpalate, with a juicy finish. Drink now through 2021. 1,020 cases made.
PEDRONCELLI Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley Bushnell Vineyard 2016
Broad and briary, showing raspberry and pomegranate flavors, with underbrush and licorice accents,finishing with zesty tannins. Best after 2020. 1,500 cases made.
TAKEN Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast Complicated 2016
This offers red currant, cherry and plum tart flavors that are layered with medium-grained tannins and engaging minerality. Finishes with savory spice notes. Drink now. 16,500 cases made.
PEZZI KING Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley Hales 2016
Plump and jammy, with easygoing raspberry, caramel and spice flavors. Drink now. 400 cases made.
ROTH Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley 2016
Clean and pure, with a mix of supple dark berry, cedar, licorice, loamy earth and gravel flavors. Drink now through 2028. 28,000 cases made.
RODNEY STRONG Upshot Sonoma County 2016
Modestly built, showing zesty cherry, charred dill and toast flavors that finish with a mild tannic bite. Zinfandel, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Riesling. Drink now through 2021. 10,875 cases made.