Limited Availability!– Only 30 Cases Remain of this Gem...
One of the most amazing things about California wine is that just when you think they can’t possibly find another world class growing region, someone comes along and shows that the next big thing may be just around the corner. Lake County may not have reached world class status yet, but with Napa wine prices in the stratosphere, and other AVAs not far behind, Lake County is quickly becoming the source for some of the most balanced, interesting, well-priced wines around. Today’s Heist features another small, family run affair, Jus Soli Winery. Jus Soli actually focuses on Sonoma County wines, but couldn’t resist the allure of the Madder Lake vineyard in Lake County.
The 2007 Jus Soli Madder Lake Zinfandel is medium purple in the glass. The nose shows purple fruit flavors of blackberry and boysenberry, along with spice and iron. The palette is loaded with mixed berry jam, plum, spicy toasted oak, and a distinctive slate or graphite character. The mineral component seems to be due to the soils and slightly cooler climate in Lake County, and is a refreshing change from warmer climate Zin that tends to be nothing but fruit and jam. Good acid, medium weight, and plenty of richness carry through on the finish, allowing this wine to pair gracefully with a variety of dishes. It would be perfect with grilled chicken, or with smoked salmon and creamy cheese. At a miniscule production of 350 cases, this is one to get while you can!
Vineyard: Madder Lake Vineyard
Appellation: Lake County
Varietal Blend: Zinfandel
Cases Produced: 350
Gold Medal
Generously packed with black cherry, cola, cassis, and plum that all intermingle together in a creamy, velvety texture with great layering, finishing with delightful notes of oak and spice. Persistent, well-defined structure, wonderfully balanced.
90 Points
Rich and voluptuous with ripe raspberry, cherry, and plum, layered with hints of lavender, fig compote, and exotic spice. Concentrated and complex, the palate is a balanced interplay cocoa, and a hint of espresso, creating both richness and intrigue. Vibrant acidity and silky tannins that contribute heft and length that coat the palate with luscious ripeness that keeps on giving.
94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
96 Points
Aromas of blackberry, black cherry, huckleberry, floral violet and savory spice. The palate is full and layered, with robust, age-worthy tannins and gorgeous flavors of dark berries, mocha and chocolate-covered cherries mingling with hints of graphite, fig and fine leather. Smooth tannins, firm structure and silky texture coat the palate on route to a long, generous finish.
Exceptional!
Reddish-purple in color with aromas of blackberry, plum, pomegranate, herbs de Provence, and licorice. The palate is full, structured and balanced with blackberry, currant, black cherry, cassis, and licorice that carries through, with notes of black pepper, mocha and chocolate. Very long, spicy, with a fruit-driven finish. Great aging potential.
Gold Medal
Light pink in color with aromas of watermelon, cranberry, orange rind, and fresh spring flowers that leap from the glass. The palate offers more peach, strawberry, and melon, with an intriguing note of rose and hibiscus. It's crisp with just the perfect hint of red fruit, and delicate whisper of strawberry that gives goosebumps.
