Zinfandel is often called “California’s Grape,” and despite the fact that it has been genetically traced to Croatia, it certainly seems to show best all over the Golden State. Today’s offering comes from Frank Family in Napa Valley, a region certainly more well known for its Cabernet, but only because of the astounding prices some of its Cabs can fetch; Napa’s climate is also wonderful fro growing Zinfandel. Warm sunny days lead to well ripened Zinfandel grapes that tend to show more of Zin’s fruity side than the spicy, peppery side seen when grown in areas like Dry Creek Valley.
The 2007 Frank Family Zinfandel is ruby purple in color, with a bright nose of raspberry and blackberry, and hints of caramel and vanilla from judicious use of oak. The palate is complex and nicely layered with black cherry, blackberry, blueberry pie, and notes of smoked bacon fat. Great acidity leads to a beautifully balanced wine, while the rich flavors cascade over the palate and onto a long smooth finish. Zinfandel is sometimes hard to pair with food because it tends to be high in alcohol and low in acidity; Frank Family’s Zin certainly has its share of alcohol, but it is not over the top and is held in check with just the right amount of acid. The smokiness of this wine makes it a natural to pair with barbecue, but it would work equally well with any grilled meat. At under $30, this offers a hugely intense wine perfect for outdoor summer meals and an unbeatable price!
Production Notes:
15 months maturation in 35% new French oak and 65% once and twice filled French oak barrels
Varietal Composition: 84% Zinfandel, 9% Cabernet, 7% Petite Sirah
Harvest Date: September 10th – October 11th 2007
Acid: 0.62 g/100ml TA
PH: 3.79 pH
Barrel Aging: 15 Months
Bottling Date: May 2009
Food Pairing: Grilled meats
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Violet black in color with aromas of rich fruity dark berries, honeycomb, vanilla, and hints of forest floor join together with bold flavors of black cherry, and spiced nut. Balanced oak, layered palette, leaving you with a enjoyable persistent finish.
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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.
Rich & Tropical...
Notes of tropical and ripe stone fruits, with aromas of fig, golden apple and hints of butterscotch, integrated with the richer aromas of light caramel, truffle and toasted vanilla from the oak aging. The palate and texture is rich, full-bodied and creamy, while maintaining a balanced vibrancy and finish.
