Estancia Zinfandel for Thanksgiving

November 24th, 2009 Posted in Red Wines, Wine Reviews

Estancia Zinfandel Canyon Keyes Ranches · Paso Robles, California

estancia-zinIn the last post we extolled the virtue of putting an American Zinfandel on the Thanksgiving table, and in this post we have another Zin recommendation, albeit at around half the price: Estancia Canyon Keyes Ranches.

Understand, though, you generally get what you pay for when it comes to wine. And this Estancia bottle — at around twelve bucks — is affordable but does not have the same depth and finish as the previously reviewed Quivira. But, some people are on a tighter budget for the holidays, and if you need to stay below fifteen dollars, Estancia is a solid, easy-to-find Zin that happens to match very well with nearly everything included in a typical Thanksgiving feast.

Tasting Notes: Estancia Zinfandel Canyon Keyes Ranches 2007

Soft and fruity upfront, turning a bit earthy and bitter in the finish. Works well with the dark meat and stuffing, finishing with a cranberry note and cherry tartness. With the white meat it’s OK, not great — it matches better with the dark meat and earthy accoutrements (i.e., stuffed mushrooms). I expect it to be equally palatable with more complex stuffings, such as those that may include mushrooms, dried fruits, sausage, or nuts.

Where to buy Estancia Zinfandel

Find this wine at a retailer near you using Wine-Searcher, Vinquire, or WineZap

Find more information at the Estancia Estates website


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