In the 2000 vintage we selected the oldest portion of a couple of our vineyards, brought it to Laurel Glen, and aged it for 14 months in mostly brand new French Taransaud and Minnesota (for spice) oak barrels. The wine is so fruit-filled that, like Laurel Glen, it has simply incorporated the oak into its natural taste and structure as a component of power and roundness rather than of wood taste. Although it checks in with 14.5% alcohol, the 2000 ZaZin is not to be confused with the absurdly liquorous, over-extracted zinfandels currently in vogue. Instead, ZaZin is concentrated yet balanced, with a lively acidity that frames and focuses the deep plum fruit. The dark purple rim and deep garnet core underscore its depth of flavor. It's bright and racy, with a long and elegant finish. This is a wine to drink with dinner --- it invites a second glass. We have found that, unlike cabernet, zinfandel in general and ZaZin in particular is best enjoyed shortly after release, while the fruit is still prominent and forward. Simply grilled meats and unfussy pastas allow ZaZin's fruit to zing. Hard nutty cheeses with ZaZin are a delight.