92 Points, Double Gold - American Fine Wine Competition
91 Points - Robert Parker
Varietal
Zinfandel is a bold, fruit forward red that's loved for its jammy fruit and smoky, exotic spice notes, and has been touted as "America's grape," but its origins are from Croatia and was likely brought to the USA in the early 1800's.
Chiles Valley, Napa Valley
The Chiles Valley is nestled in the Vaca Mountains above the northeast side of the Napa Valley. The appellation has a cooler climate than the main Napa Valley floor due to elevations of 600–1200 feet as well as a cooling breeze from the Pacific Ocean. Classic 'big red' Californian varieties like Zinfandel, have proved very successful at this location.
Winemaking
The grapes for this wine come from old vines, which produce concentrated characteristics in the berries. The grapes were harvested by hand, destemmed and manually sorted. Fermentation lasted 10 days, with 2-3 punchdowns daily by hand. Prior to bottling, the wine was aged in 1/3 Hungarian oak and 2/3 neutral oak barrels for 24 months.
Varietal Composition: 100% Zinfandel
Appellation: Chiles Valley, Napa Valley
Aging: 1/3 New Hungarian oak barrels, 2/3 neutral oak, 24 months
Harvest Date: October 4, 2019
Release Date: April 2023
Alcohol: 14.5%
Production: 293 cases
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92 Points
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Exceptional
Aromas of bright oak, essence of lilac, toasted brioche and sage delight your senses. Flavors are just as complex with hints of soft melted butter, quince, fig, and a touch of lavender that titillate your taste buds. Its delightful texture is balanced by great acidity, leading to a long satisfying finish. Truly a chardonnay lovers Chardonnay.
