From what turned out to be a superb vintage for Zin in California. Now beginning to open out somewhat it has an incredible nose of currants, macerated plums and apricot blossom. On the palate it is intense, rich and very well balanced with lots of extract and layer after layer of brooding black fruit and pepper. We have only bought a small parcel of this very limited production and mature wine direct from the estate, it will work very well with steak au poivre or hard cheeses and if you can resist keep for 10+ yrs.

• Feel free to mix Fine Wines with “regular” wines to make up your order of 12 bottles (or more!) in total. However, at least 6 bottles must be Fine Wine products, because Fine Wines require special distribution from our temperature-controlled Fine Wine Centre in London. Original wooden cases not available outside the M25.