Quickfire - Zinfandel 2006

Normally I wouldn't expect much from a wine sponsored by a television show, but as a long time fan of Top Chef, I figured what the heck, I'll give it a shot.

Someone over at Top Chef put the Terlato Wine Group in charge of the Quickfire wines, and with 50 years of experience, I think they know what they're doing.

I was pleasantly surprised with this wine. It's smooth with soft tannins, fruity and spicy. Characteristics I always look for in my reds. When I label search and read tasting notes, I try to find those words, any fruit related words, cocoa, chocolate, and usually get wines I'm happy with, taking notes to never buy again anything that isn't good.

The tasting notes for Quickfire Zinfandel read: Rich, dark rose. The nose captures brambly blackberry fruit. Anise, blueberry and black cherry notes flow through on the palate.

If you find this one in the store, give it a shot. Pairs well with pretty much anything that can hold up to a spicy fruity red! So don't have this with some halibut! Stick to your red meats, hearty pastas and of course Pizza!

Enjoy!