Sophie’s Choice

Norman Zinfandel
2001 The Monster

n the spirit of St. Patrick’s day I tried to find an Irish wine, or one with Irish roots. But instead I found a great Zinfandel that will make you want to kiss an Irishman or Irishwoman, personally I prefer the latter. This wine is an opulent, over-the-top explosion of goodness – If the 80’s was the decade of excess, the Zinfandel The Monster is the wine of excess. The aromatics of this Zin are slap your mama good; it is bursting with huge plums, blackberries, cherries and a touch of licorice, toast and caramelized sugar (think crème brulee). In the mouth you will taste more plums, and Mom’s homemade berry pie. The soft round tannins gently coat your mouth leaving the essence of raspberries lingering long after you’ve swallowed. This is a showy wine; help do it justice. Serve it with appetizers of a wide variety, or try it with both berry and chocolate desserts, and don’t forget to share with your favorite red headed Irishman, or Irishwoman. Pucker up and Erin Go Braugh!