2006 Old Barn Zinfandel

Zinfandel is the classic choice for casual occasions, the ultimate patio wine. There’s a wild streak in its genes, a playful, zany edge, something that brings to mind Hawaiian shirts and sun hats and reggae music on the portable boom box. No wonder it's pronounced zin-FUN-del.

But that doesn’t mean the wine itself has to be casual, or casually made. Zins like this one can deliver layer upon layer of flavor, seamless integration of all the moving parts, and enough finish to last through two or three bites of food. If there was ever a serious wine for laid-back drinking, this is it.