Clos LaChance Buff-Bellied Hummingbird Series Central Coast Zinfandel 2004

There's a gravity-defying movement and flourish of beauty to Clos LaChance Hummingbird Series Buff-Bellied Central Coast Zinfandel that's uncommon in its price range.

Bill and Brenda (LaChance) Murphy began selling their estate grown wine about 15 years ago, and their daughters Cheryl and Kristin have grown up in the company which is symbolized by the Hummingbird logo. Head Winemaker Steven Tebb came to Clos LaChance from Artesa (Napa).

Clos LaChance has a unique way of "paying it forward", donating a portion of the sales of every bottle of the popularly-priced Hummingbird Series to the Hummingbird Society, an organization whose mission is to promote the understanding and conservation of Hummingbirds.

Excellent value ($14). Closure: Real cork. Alcohol content: 14.5%

Style: Lush, fruit-forward, some oak spice.

Tasting Notes: Appearance: Deep candy apple red, translucent. Aromas: Black raspberry, cherry, raisin, nutmeg/cinnamon spice, and hints of coffee. Masculine, tart, medium-to-full-bodied and lush on the tongue, the complex red-to-black raspy fruit and perfectly balanced oak seasoning leads to a satisfying rich finish.

Comment: Slice some medium-rare New York strip steak on a salad.