This Reserve Zinfandel is a blend of some of the very best vineyards in Mendocino County, some of them over 50 years old. The grapes were grown in the hills and bench lands in shallow rocky soils with excellent exposures, which consistently produces grapes that are intensely ripe and flavorful. 48 months of barrel ageing in 65% new French Burgundy oak barrels has softened the wine and added complexity to the elegant, fruity aromas and intense full flavors of dark berries. This wine possesses smooth rich tannins and a long, luscious finish. This Zinfandel makes and ideal accompaniment to roasted meats and hearty Italian fare.
Vineyards
Our Reserve Zinfandel comes from some of the very best vineyards in
Mendocino County, some of them over 50 years old. This wine is made up
of 2 different old-vine Zinfandel vineyards that are scattered throughout
the hillsides and benchlands in Mendocino County. These shallow rocky
soils with excellent sun exposures consistently produce grapes that are
intensely ripe and flavorful. Many of these vineyards are still farmed by
3rd and 4th generation Italian-Americans.
Winemaking
After a long, slow fermentation, the wine was aged for 48 months in 65%
new French Burgundy oak, softening the tannins and adding length and
depth to the blackberry-jam aromas and ripe, earthy, spicy flavors with
nuances of tar and toasty French oak.
Winemaker Comments
This vintage displays a rich dark purple garnet color and deep aromas of
black cherry, boysenberry, plum, spicy sandalwood with hints of toasty
oak. Uplifting flavors of plum, black cherry cola and a subtle of earthiness
combine to give this full-bodied Zinfandel a generous mouth-feel. Rich full
tannins and balanced acidity lead into a long, lingering finish.
Winemaking Data
Harvest Date: October 15th - 22nd
Fermentation & Aging
Fermentation: 3 days of cold soak,
pumped over and punched down
twice a day for 12-18 days in
stainless open top fermentors
Aging: 48 months in French
Burgundy barrels (65% new French)
Wine Blend: 89% Zinfandel, 11% Petite Sirah
Alcohol: 15.0%
Total Acidity: 7.2 g/L
pH: 3.26
Residual Sugar: 1.0 g/L
Wine
Blend: 89% Zinfandel, 11% Petite
Sirah
Alcohol: 15.0%
Total Acidity: 7.2 g/L
pH: 3.26
Residual Sugar: 1.0 g/L
Food Pairing:
This wine makes an ideal accompaniment to
barbecued chicken, roast beef, and grilled
steak or lamb
