I recently received a lineup of samples from Paso Robles winery Minassian-Young Vineyards. According to the winery’s website, Minassian-Young is owned by husband-wife team David and Amparo Young, who also make the wines. Grapes are sourced from a 12-acre estate vineyard that used to be part of the Peachy Canyon holdings that the Youngs purchased in 2003. 2004 was their first commercial vintage.

It’s always fun to check out the offerings of relatively new winery, and although I didn’t love a couple of the other reds, I did particularly enjoy the Zin and the white Rhone blend:

Minassian-Young 2008 White Rhonoceros Paso Robles ($18). I enjoyed this Marsanne, Rousanne, Viognier blend for its appealing layers of apricot, apricot kernel, crisp apple and balanced alcohol. Tasty! Ready to drink now and over the next couple of years. Locate this wine online or in your area.

Minassian-Yount 2007 Zinfandel Paso Robles Estate ($23). If big, alcoholic Zins are your thing, you should check out this one! Intense, aromatic black cherry and cassis, with a peppery kick throughout, and a slick, jammy, slurpable texture. A lot of wine for the money. Ready to drink now. Locate this wine online or in your area.