Zinfandel, Primitivo two sides of same coin

Maryhill Winery 2012 Zinfandel, Columbia Valley, $17

Maryhill Winery in Goldendale, Wash., has long produced some of the Northwest’s finest Zins, and this effort from New Zealand-born winemaker Richard Batchelor further burnishes that reputation. Aromas of ripe red cherry, raspberry and black pepper give way to flavors of ripe red and black fruit and a wisp of smoke. It’s all backed by beautiful acidity and mild acidity.

Rating: Outstanding!

Production: 1,970

Alcohol: 14.9%

Winery website