1997 Ravenswood Vintners Blend Zinfandel ($12).

The new vintage of this repeat wine of the week choice lives up to the glory of previous years. It offers long, ripe blackberry and black cherry flavors with cedar-y and earthy notes for added complexity. The just-released vintage is a little raw now, but will tone down and show impressive power and length. If you see this impressive California red on sale, stock up for the year ahead.

Pub Date: 02/03/99