2013 Fife Creek Vineyards Russian River Valley Zinfandel ($10)

This was a recent find of a Russian River Valley Zin that doesn't break the bank. This Zin tends toward being light for a Zinfandel. It's almost leaning toward a light-bodied wine, almost like a Pinot Noir.

This Zinfandel has hints of peppery flavors as opposed to being big in fruit and jammy. It has definite oak flavors while being one that is easy drinking, smooth and finishes with finesse. While Fife Creek Vineyards is not a physical vineyard you can visit during your next trip to the Russian River, it is worth stopping along the wine aisle and picking up a bottle of this one.