Frei Brothers Reserve

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Dried red cherries, tobacco, smoke and savory herbs are some of the many notes that burst from the glass in the 2011 Zinfandel. I would prefer to enjoy this hearty, generous red over the next few years, while the fruit remains vibrant and juicy. Here, too, Frei Brothers delivers excellent quality for the money. Anticipated maturity: 2013-2016. Tel. (877) 687-9463

The outstanding 2010 Zinfandel, a blend of 97.5% Zinfandel and 2.5% Petite Sirah (one of Gallo’s favorite blending varietals), hit nearly 15% alcohol. Its dense purple color is accompanied by meaty boysenberry, black cherry and black currant fruit intertwined with notions of pepper and underbrush. Full-bodied with admirable texture as well as fruit, it should drink nicely for 3-4 years. Importer :E & J Gallo Winery ;Tel. (877) 687-9463; www.gallo.com

The 2008 Merlot is surprisingly good. It is a dark ruby/plum-hued, rich, chocolaty effort displaying hints of espresso roast, black cherries and plums. This well-made, silky textured, lush, seductive Merlot begs for consumption over the next 4-5 years. Named after Swiss immigrant Andrew Frei who settled in Sonoma in the 1880s, this winery is another value-priced gem in the Gallo stable.Tel. (866) 346-3963

The outstanding 2007 Sauvignon Blanc (20,000 cases produced) is about as good as this varietal can be. Flinty fig, melon, and honeyed grapefruit aromas and flavors emerge from this tank-fermented and aged 2007. This medium-bodied, refreshing white is not put through malolactic, which provides additional crispness. Consume it over the next 1-2 years. One of the best value producers in the Gallo empire is the Frei Brothers Reserve.Tel. (866) 346-3963

More backward, but still impressive is the 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon. Its deep, dark ruby color is followed by notes of creosote, roasted herbs, tobacco leaf, black currants, and cherries. This smoky, medium to full-bodied, impressively endowed Cabernet should drink well for a decade. One of the best value producers in the Gallo empire is the Frei Brothers Reserve.Tel. (866) 346-3963