So, Ok, 'tain't Zin.
A really nice bottle of wine, both with yesterday's mesquite-grilled lamb chops (that's why I got it out) and this evening's veal scallopine alla Marsala with fresh tomato and mushrooms. Opened an hour + before dinner. It's fresher than I'd expected, though it has lost its newly-bottled fruitiness. Lots of black pepper, of course, and some tomato-ish taste much like some cabs. Along with the pepper, some fairly stiff tannins (to be expected from the vintage). Nice medium finish, ending up pleasantly grapey..
Fine with both meals. Bought at the winery, $36 ({Porter Creek isn't where you go for a cheap kick), 14.1% alcohol. Porter Creek is also a nice visit, especially if you're early or late. The tasting room is tiny - a former tractor shed about the size of a single car garage.