The 2011 Renwood Clarion Zinfandel & Syrah from Amado County scored 18+ points on the 20-point Dionysian scale, cost just under $20, has 14,8% alcohol, and at eight years old, it is coming into its peak.

The black pepper from the Syrah and the white pepper from the Zin along with the aroma of black fruits made this wine the ideal partner for the venison dinner. It has soft tannin, and a long clean finish.

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It is a perfect blend of two brotherly grapes; Zinfandel and Syrah both grown in similar soils and both had the same growing conditions. The name comes from the tale about a wren outsmarting an eagle.

I think the wine will improve a tiny bit more with another three years. However, it’s a gem right now.   If you have any of the 2011’s, enjoy them this year.  In Vino veritas.