want to start by saying that this is the most difficult top ten list of the year to complete. Seven of the wines listed here today are little known outside of the local Sonoma Valley area and are made in such small quantities that most national magazines may not be willing to cover them. These wines have been chosen based strictly on taste, expression of the vineyard and sensitive winemaking. For this review it is important to clarify the difference between the Sonoma Valley AVA and the
Sonoma County AVA. Sonoma Valley does not include the Russian River, Dry Creek, Rockpile orAlexander Valley appellations. Zinfandels grown in Sonoma Valley are very complete wines in the classical sense. Their flavors are best described as red fruit centered, balanced, medium weight and With most of their flavors in the mid palette or finish rather than upfront. These wines appeal most to Bordeaux and classic Cabernet drinkers who value balance and complexity over wines from warmer climates.