Peter Franus Brandlin Vineyard Zinfandel 2007

I am fast becoming a Zin fan — largely due to my love for the Zinfandel’s of Napa based Peter Franus. I was first introduced to the 2006 Peter Franus Zinfandel by my friend Alex at Salt Tasting Room in Vancouver. A knockout suggestion, I quickly became a fan seeking out the Peter Franus label wherever I could conceivably find it.

Recently a friend brought the 2007 Peter Franus Brandlin Zinfandel over to my place during a visit and I was taken at how wildly different it was from the “regular” Zin, but also how good it was in its own right.

The Brandlin Zinfandel was more jammy, and had the qualities of mushy over-ripe raspberries, but in a good way! An easily approachable, but structured Zinfandel, it was a little easier to drink as a sipper while maintaining some of its “big red” characteristics, whereas the other Peter Franus white label zin is more peppery and bright. In my mind better suited to a pairing with a nice steak or pork chop. Although come to think of it, I am quite happy to drink either on their own.

The 2007 Brandlin Zin struck a chord with me and made me wish I had some in my cellar. I’ll be looking for it high and low, but in the meantime it only strengthens my affinity for the Peter Franus brand. Thanks Peter. Good stuff as always!