It's almost Spring and my heart turns to red wines. Let's start with a Zippy Zin.

• RENWOOD Sierra Estate 2000 California Zinfandel $11.99
  Not to be confused with: Ravenswood, Kenwood or Natalie Wood. This gem of a Zin has deep fruit, a touch of oak and an interesting "Asian" accent of Soy and Seaweed. It will thin out a little at the finish, but indeed a delight.
• HEDGES Three Vineyards Washington State Red 1999 $18.99
  The only words for this wine are elegant and stylish. A Cabernet - Merlot blend, well balanced and drinkable now, but time and bottle age will add more value.
• DELICATO California Shiraz 2000 $Best Buy$
  Dark cherry fruit with a rich texture. Simple, but the flavors are well integrated. Hard to beat at twice the cost, but go for the Magnum at $10.99.
• COOPER-GARROD California Cabernet Franc 1996 $24.99
  Cabernet Franc is the mainstay of Bordeaux and produces the quality reds of Touraine (Chinon and Bourgeuil). Juicier and containing less tannins than its cousin Cabernet Sauvignon it has mostly been used for blending by California Wine makers.
• COOPER-GARROD, a small family owned and operated vineyard, winery and horse farm just above Saratoga has specialized in Cabernet Franc. The wine is soft and luscious with rich raspberry notes. Extremely well-balanced with a great finish. The wine is better served on the cool side (cool, not chilled) like at cellar temperature of 67 degrees.
• KING ESTATE Oregon Pinot Gris 2000 $11.99
  My white selection is a round, flavorful wine with hints of pear, nutmeg, melon, peach and citrus--like a fruit cup in a bottle. The flavors are well integrated with a little "tang' at the close.