93 Points - Wilfred Wong
91 Points - Tastings.com, October 13th 2020
Pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes, such as sausage pizza, grilled shish-kabobs or roasted rack of lamb.
Vintage: The string of near perfect vintages continued for the fifth year in 2016, with an early bud break and flowering followed by sunny days and relatively mild temperatures throughout the growing season. We were able to have almost all our grapes safely in the cellar before the valley’s first significant fall rainstorm arrived on October fourteenth.
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: 14.2%
Fermentation: indigenous yeast
Harvest date: Sept 19-27, 2016
Sugar: 23.5% degrees Brix at Harvest
Bottling date: April 2018
Release Date: April 2021
Total acid: 5.7 g/L
pH: 3.85
Time in oak: 18 months
Type of oak: French oak
Blend: 100% Zinfandel
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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