The Comet, a Burly Zin-Based Red Blend from Dashe Cellars

Dashe Cellars 2012 'The Comet' Red Alexander Valley ($35) I've been a fan of Mike and Anne Dashe's wines for about 20 years. For me, their always-satisfying Dry Creek Valley Zinfandel is a real benchmark California Zin, and one that has always showcased this couple's blending ability and sense of balance. They make a lot of wines with a sense of moderation and class, and I think this relatively new red blend from Alexander Valley shows the same expertise in blending. It combines a core of 51% Zinfandel with a good bit of 130 year-old Carignane grapes for bright acidity and freshness, and 28% Petite Sirah for inky color and structure. This is a saturated, black/purple red with a nose of blueberries, boysenberries, cinnamon and coriander spice and a broad mouthfeel. It finishes with moderate tannin and surprisingly fresh acidity thanks to the Carignane in the mix. Think of it as a 250-lb dude who can still dance a mean tango. 91 points

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