Robert Biale Zinfandel Black Chicken 2021 (750ML)

93 WA / 93 JS / 93 WI / 92 WS / 92 JD / 92 WE / 17 JR

Sourced primarily from Oak Knoll, the 2021 Zinfandel Black Chicken delivers briar-laced bramble-berry fruit, plus a decent dose of vanilla (maturation was in 25% new French oak). Full-bodied, it's creamy, ripe and lush, with a slightly herbal tang on the lingering finish. It's a balanced, seductive Zin, not over the top while still expressing intense varietal character.-Joe Czerwinski, The Wine Advocate

Dark plums, crushed dark berries, cocoa beans, dried orange and moist bark. Medium-bodied, spiced and racy with sleek tannins and vivid acidity. Flavorful and silky. Drink now.-James Suckling

The 2021 Robert Biale Black Chicken Zinfandel is medium to deep garnet-purple in color. Notes of raspberry pie, redcurrant jelly, and blueberry compote pop from the glass, leading to wafts of hoisin, damp soil, and mossy tree bark. The medium to full-bodied palate has bright acidity and chewy tannins to support the expressive red and blue fruit layers, finishing long and earthy.-Lisa Perrotti-Brown, Wine Independent

A briar patch in a glass, this zesty red shows spirited blackberry, grilled anise and green peppercorn flavors as it builds richness toward refined tannins. Drink now through 2032. 7,185 cases made.-Tim Fish, Wine Spectator

Tobacco, cigar, red and black plums, and strawberry notes all emerge from the 2021 Zinfandel Black Chicken, a medium-bodied, elegant, seamless Zinfandel that has light tannins and a great finish. It's beautifully done and as seamless as they come.-Jeb Dunnuck

A touch of maple sweetness tops boisterous, bright fruit flavors in this full-bodied, smooth and lightly tannic wine from one of Napa's few Zinfandel specialists. Raspberries, strawberries and vanilla taste rich and relaxed as you sip. — Jim Gordon, Wine Enthusiast

Medium ruby with a hint of purple in colour. Blackberry preserves, red-pepper flakes and bramble. Mouth-watering, fresh acidity and fine-grained tannins. Lightweight, despite being 14.8%. An entry-level wine that delivers nearly every vintage. Great Value!-Samantha Cole-Johnson, JancisRobinson