Columbia Crest makes a limited number of single vineyard reserves. This Zinfandel comes from what is emerging as the best site for that grape in Washington. Bright, tart, and full of sappy raspberry and red fruits, this young, ageworthy Zin has great penetration and punch. In style, it is closest to classic Dry Creek Zins from such producers as A. Rafanelli and Doug Nalle. Though labeled simply Columbia Valley, it’s actually the Wahluke Slope AVA.——P.G.(12/31/2010)—— 90

The 2006 Zinfandel Reserve Stone Tree Vineyard, a top-notch hillside site located in the Wahluke Slope AVA. It includes 12% Primitivo and 12% Petite Sirah in the blend. The wine was aged in 50% new American oak for 18 months. Dark ruby-colored, it delivers a fragrant nose of wild berry, underbrush, and cedar. On the palate it is medium to full-bodied, sweet, supple, and forward with superior depth. Nicely balanced and with enough ripe tannin to evolve for 1-2 years, it will drink well through 2016. Columbia Crest, owned by Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, has long been known for the quality of its value-priced wines. The current collection will only enhance the winery’s reputation. Columbia Crest is usually thought of as a producer of value-priced wines selling for under $20. However, their upper-level, limited-production wines merit serious attention as they, too, are value-priced compared to the competition Tel. (509) 875-2061; www.columbia-crest.com

This limited release (300 cases), first-ever Zin from Columbia Crest points to the rising prominence of this quintessentially Californian grape. In Washington’s Wahluke Slope, Zin ripens well without turning into a Port-like substance. Tightly-defined raspberry, blackberry and plum fruits, scented with violets and juicy with fresh acid, take to the new oak aging well. It’s a balanced mix of berry, barrel and crisp, palate-cleansing acid.——P.G.(5/1/2008)—— 88