Zinfandel of the Month is a regular feature on Zinfandel Chronicles. Keep in mind that although the Zinfandel of the Month might be an older bottle, the current vintage will be one you can find at retail or via the mailing list.
The February Zinfandel of the Month is the 2017 Gamba Zinfandel Old Vine Gamba Estate Vineyard.
I chose this wine simply because I have heard so much about Gamba but have never had the opportunity to try a bottle.
Gamba Winery was founded in 1999 by Agostino Gamba and his wife Paulette. The Gamba family has been growing grapes in the Russian River Valley going back 6 generations.
Bright crimson in color. 15.9% ABV. Pretty nose of red and black fruits, peach and baking spices. Medium body with mouth watering acidity. Well balanced. Bright and lively, Claret style Zinfandel. Raspberry liqueur, black cherry and pepper on the palate. Exceptional length on the finish. Beautiful Zinfandel that will improve with some time in the cellar. Best over the next 3-5 years.
My rating: 94 points.
The Gamba wines are not cheap but the quality is here to justify the pricing. The Old Vines bottling can be found for $45.