I bought this on a trip to Napa and dontthink it can be found outside of the Kendall-Jackson tasting facility north of Santa Rosa..... $25/ bottle

As bad as 98 was in California, this wine Weathered the storm.

Color was Puple/ Red and it was difficult to see the bottom of the deacanter through the obviously viscous nectar

Nose was immediate, fruity, and sweet

Initial taste was tons of crushed berry, light pepper, and smooth tannins. Finish lasted 4ever. 1 hour later still was as good as the first sip but was not opened any more than initially. Very ready to drink. Vey refined for a Zinfandel which was impressive considering a 15.5% alcohol content (but fruit to match).

I am wondering if anyone has tasted the 97 or 99, must have been fabulous.

My rating: 92

twf

Because you asked here are my notes from earlier this year...

Edmeades '97 Mendecino Zinfandel ($17)

Surprisingly elegant Zin. Is this what happens with a few years of bottle age? Nose of sour cherries, it was medium/full-bodied, with elegant, yet slightly jammy red fruit, with a little spice layered underneath. Acidity is still good, and stood up well to grilled rib-eye steak. Good food wine. Still have 1-2 years left?

Cheers!

TWF: I had the 98 Ed Meades Zin in middle of July after picking this up at the Kendall-Jackson tasting room on my trip to CA over the 4th of July weekend. I enjoyed this and posted notes back further. Seem to remember red rasberry and cherry in flavor with cedar and spice notes. Also, seemed to have a nice cushy texture that really stood out in my mind.

The 1999 had a negative review from Rob A at the time, and Board-O commented very favorably on the 1997. I saw the 1998 in the North bound NH Liquor & Wine Store on Rte. 95 this past Friday night. Sounds like if I had picked up another bottle, it could have been worth the $14.99 price.

Good luck!
Mark, N.H.