Rosenblum Cellars California Zinfandel "Vintner's Cuvee XXXI"

I found this wine tucked away in a quickie mart, but don't be deceived - this wine is readily available most places where wine is sold. Rosenblum was founded in 1978 and is a solid producer of red wines, focusing most of their attention on Zinfandel, which is perhaps California's original and best varietal besides Cabernet Sauvignon.

Rosenblum's entry level Zin is called the "Vintner's Cuvee" and retails for around $10. Notably, instead of listing a vintage year on the label, Rosenblum opts for Roman numerals to designate each successive bottling. The "XXXI," or 31st bottling, is the most current release and the one you're likely to find on store shelves right now (ignore the "XV" in the photo above). Basically Roman numerals are used instead of the vintage year because wine label regulations specify that a certain percentage of grapes must come from a certain year in order to declare a specific vintage on the wine's label. It's not necessarily a bad thing, just different. To prove my point consider that Krug Champagne, which sells for over $100 per bottle, does not include a varietal either. Blame the Governmental regulatory lawyers. Oh wait... I'm a lawyer too. Oh well. Let's figure out if this wine is any good -

Rosenblum's website says:

"The Cuvée XXXI features aromas of black cherry, blackberry and raspberry, as well as spice and vanilla overtones. Medium-bodied and replete with acidity, this food-friendly wine pairs well with pizza, pasta, barbecue meats and poultry, as well as Italian and Mediterranean style foods."

In my opinion, that's an accurate description of this wine. I would add that raspberry and vanilla are by far the predominant flavors. Upon taking a whiff of this wine you are immediately hit with fragrant aromas of jammy, crushed red raspberries. Very strong nose that leaps from the glass. The flavor profile is very ripe and classic California Zinfandel - highly extracted, in your face, stain-your-tongue-purple for days. A touch on the sweet side due to the ripe fruit flavors, but really delicious. Oak is not noticeable if present at all. Very drinkable on it's own, this wine would also compliment steak and anything from the grill. Probably a great pairing with cheese and should be a nice barbeque wine too. I would strongly recommend this wine to anyone. Great wine at a great price. Rosenblum cements its legacy of one of the most consistent entry-level California Zinfandel producers.