I was surprised and delighted by a unique Zinfandel I tried recently while dining at a favorite restaurant in Truckee called Pianeta.
Cantiga Wineworks’ lovely, soft Herbert Vineyard Zinfandel was far from the bold, zesty, meal-in-a-glass Zinfandels you often encounter from El Dorado County. It actually reminded me more of a Pinot Noir, with its light, elegant personality, bright, lush plummy-cherry flavors, and enticing fragrance with a hint of anise and pomegranate. Wonderfully drinkable and friendly, it was terrific with our pasta dishes – and I imagine it would pair very well with a wide array of red meat dishes. This is one local wine worth seeking out.
