Williams Selyem Forchini Vineyard 2004 Russian River Valley Zinfandel

I enjoyed this bottle with Alec Phoenix and Barbara before they took me to Rubicon for a fantastic meal.

Williams Selyem is known primarily for pinot noir, but nearly everything else they produce is top-notch, including their Chardonnay, Zin, and dessert wines (especially their Muscat Canelli).

This overripe Zin is a whopping 15.6% alcohol, but they managed to keep it under control and relatively balanced.   Lots of smooth vanilla and toast layers nicely with the Bing cherry and blueberry.

$65; 90 points

Bottom Line:   This bottle is proof that the Russian River Valley doesn't have to produce lean and refined Zins -- they can make the big ones too...