90 Points - JamesSuckling.com
In a line-up of top Napa Zinfandel, it always shines.
Pairs beautifully with a wide array of dishes like sausage pizza, grilled shish-kabobs, roasted rack of lamb and more.
Vintage: 2020 was one of the hottest vintages on record with multiple heat waves well over 100 degrees, vintage 2020 was also accompanied by exceptionally low rainfall: 50-60% below average. Despite the heat and drought, our vines were well prepared for the stress. Due to low rainfall in 2020, the vines prepared themselves for drought by producing less leaves, which requires less water. The heat and drought produced exceptionally low yields but with excellent quality – great acid and freshness in white wines, and beautiful concentration and color in the reds.
Vineyard: Their 34-acre vineyard, which is located above Calistoga, is the warmest of their five vineyards and is the sole source. Its northeast exposure catches abundant morning sun but is shaded from the hot, late afternoon sun and combined with the vineyard’s gravelly loam soil, creates the perfect spot to grow this varietal. All vineyards are certified regenerative organic, ensuring that all of the grapes are of the highest quality, and responsible stewards of our environment.
Alcohol: 14.7%
Fermentation: Indigenous yeast pressed off skins to retain fruit character
Harvest date: Sept. 24 - Oct. 2, 2020
Sugar: 24.5% degrees Brix at Harvest
Bottling date: March 2022
Release Date: January 2024
Total acid: 5.5 g/L
pH: 3.92
Aging: 18 months in French oak
Blend: 95% Zinfandel, 5% Petite Sirah
95 Points
Seductive aromas of black fruits – blackberries, black currant, black cherry – accented by exotic wafts of cardamom and nutmeg. Still greater depth is achieved on the palate, with red berries, blackberries, and hints of blood orange and dried cranberries, bolstered by bright acidity. Vibrant tannins provide additional structure and
94 Points
Aromas of honey, ginger, and key lime radiate from this elegant Chardonnay. A burst of fresh citrus, lime, and star fruit enlivens the front palate upon first sip and is quickly followed by ginger and white pepper, all underscored by subtle notes of white peach and cardamom. Vibrant acidity and steely minerality give the wine excellent structure as it moves into a long, flavorful finish.
93 Points
Robust aromatics of boysenberry, blackberry, cranberry, and black cherry are the centerpiece of this wine, harmonizing with the underlying aromas of violets, sandalwood, and forest floor. The first sip opens on the palate with a rush of softness and density, and lush, savory tannins. Red berries, blackberry, and cassis envelop the tongue on the mid-palate, gently punctuated with subtle acidity followed by a long, flavorful finish.
94 Points
Aromas of fresh lime, verbena, and gooseberry are followed by a juicy, aromatic front palate with bright acidity that wakes up your taste buds. The heightened aromatics develop even greater complexity on the mid-palate, featuring fresh lemon and star fruit, with just a hint of green apple and mango. Gorgeous structural precision leads to a long and chiseled finish with lasting minerality.
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