Franus Planchon Contra Costa Zinfandel 2000

Year after year, Stan and Gertie Planchon provide me with grapes that invariably deliver a massive quantity of the "D" factor - deliciousness for you newcomers. There is some magic in these 100-year-old vines growing in pure sand that consistently results in lush, forward, inviting, and approachable wines. "Packed with pleasure," you often hear me say.

The Planchons work very hard at managing their vineyard in the Sacramento Delta area, about 50 miles southeast of Napa. Quality is the word I hear over and over again. "If you don't have the quality, we're wasting our time," says Stan. I am pleased to have worked with them since 1995.

The 2000 growing season was without many extremes which allowed a fairly long hang time by Contra Costa standards. We finished picking on September 17, a month later than some years.

As successful as the 1999 Planchon was, I personally lean toward the 2000 because for me it more typically displays the character I associate with the vineyard. I call it classical Contra Costa. Medium ruby in color, a vibrant rose petal, raspberry, roasted coffee, and anise nose says, "get yourself over here." It has its own personality for sure and is more than comfortable with its counterparts in Napa or Sonoma.

There is that typical sense of Contra Costa sweetness which contributes to the lush, full, and juicy mouthfeel, balanced with a refreshing touch of acidity. With its exotic nose, I linger over this wine like I do with interesting Pinot Noir. There's plenty of stuffing here without being over the top, and for me triumphantly announces, this is a Zinfandel you truly want to drink!