Gold Medal - 2020 American Fine Wine Competition
This rich and full-bodied Zinfandel is graced with an elegant structure and richly nuanced flavors of blackberries and ripe cherries. A subtle waft of roasted coffee beans and lightly toasted almonds entwines with soft raspberries in a luxuriously long and persistent finish. Food-friendly and pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes, such as sausage pizza, grilled shish-kabobs or roasted rack of lamb.
Vintage: The growing season started out with unseasonably warm temperatures in the late winter and early spring, triggering early bud break. Colder temperatures in May slowed grape development which, coupled with the fourth year of drought, resulted in a smaller crop in 2015. The harvest was one of our earliest in memory with the berries smaller than usual but packed with flavor and color.
Vineyard: Their 34-acre vineyard above Calistoga is the warmest of the five vineyards and the sole source of our Zinfandel. Its northeast exposure catches abundant morning sun but is shaded from the hot, late afternoon sun and combined with the vineyard’s gravelly loam soils, creates the perfect spot to grow this varietal. They farm all of their vineyards naturally, without artificial pesticides or herbicides, and they are certified organic.
Winemaker's Notes:
Alcohol: 14.9%
Fermentation: indigenous yeast
Harvest date: Sept 12-18, 2015
Sugar: 24.8% degrees Brix at Harvest
Bottling date: March 2017
Release Date: March 2020
Total acid: 5.8 g/L
pH: 3.77
Time in oak: 16 months
Type of oak: French oak
Blend: 97% Zinfandel, 3% Petite Sirah
Big & Jammy!
Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.
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