• Dancing Bull Zinfandel 2009 review
Dancing Bull, when it debuted six or seven years ago, was solid, cheap, quality zinfandel. Then, as will happ
en with these things, the label (part of the Gallo empire) morphed into two: The more expensive Rancho Zabaco, which focused on zinfandel, and the less expensive Dancing Bull, which became a full line (chardonnay, merlot and the like) of ordinary grocery store stuff.
This was disappointing, since the Wine Curmudgeon appreciates zinfandel, and especially solid, cheap, quality zinfandel. But I’m happy to report that the current vintage of Dancing Bull zinfandel (about $10) is almost what it used to be. The 2007 isn’t quite as spicy or brambly as those first bottlings, but it does offer lots of berry fruit, subdued tannins, and, blessedly, relatively low alcohol. You can drink two glasses without the need for a field sobriety test.
Pair this with any hearty winter fare (braised short ribs and garlic mashed potatoes come to mind), as well as zinfandel’s traditional partners – spaghetti and meatballs and the like.
Your evaluation of the Dancing Bull Zin is right on the money.
Posted by: Oldtimer | December 23, 2009 at 01:34 PM
While walking through the grocery this past Saturday night, I saw a bottle of this for $8.49 and decided to try it. I was expecting something much less pleasing. While it certainly doesn't have much complexity (big fruit followed by very light spice), I enjoyed it immensely and have since recommended it to friends and family as what I would consider a perfect "table" wine.
I plan on keeping a bottle around for the average low-key dinner. For the price, I really don't think anyone would be disappointed.
Posted by: Chris | March 03, 2010 at 11:22 AM