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2006 Kiona Zinfandel - A Great Wine for the End of Summer


Kiona 2006 Zinfandel

This time of year, our SE Washington days are pleasantly warm with enchanting cool evenings. This makes for the perfect time of year to enjoy our Washington wines. If you are in the area, take in a desert sunset with friends and Washington wine - a real treat.
Lucky me, I was gifted with a bottle of Kiona 2006 Zinfandel. I've been a fan of their Lemberger for two decades, so I was intrigued by this Zin. Of note on the back of the bottle: the fruit is harvested from their vineyards on top of Red Moutain! Certainly news to me. Kiona is one of the oldest wineries on Red Mountain.

Tasting notes:

Bright garnet color, very clear and clean.

Nose: Ripe blackberry, with subtle pepper a hint of violets - and a whiff of cellery (subtle).

Taste: In the mouth good feel, cooked fruit, tar, bright.
Finish: With 13.5% alcohol it does not have the heat of other Washington reds - so you can savor the flavor. Good acidity is moderated with the perfect amount of medium tanin, and a clean finish.

This wine is immediately approachable. While it won't knock your socks off, it is pleasant, easy to drink, balanced and went very well with my, oh so tender grilled steak. I think Pinot fans will loves this wine.

Bottom line, recommended.
(I'm back in Washington - so I hope to make a trip up to the Kiona winery soon).

Cheers!
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