Gold Medal - 2011 Orange County Wine Society Competition
Top 10 Zinfandel - ZAP (Zinfandel Advocates & Producers)
One of the most interesting things about living in Sonoma County is that you are completely immersed in an area with a long history of wine production, and you are constantly discovering new things about that history. There is a Zinfandel vineyard on Starr Road that we frequently drive past, and although the vines are clearly old, it wasn't until we tasted this wine and started to research it that we found out that this vineyard was planted in the 1920s. There is something about old vine Zinfandel that really is remarkable, they tend to produce massively concentrated wines (because of the very low yields), yet remain in balance. Whatever the reason, the result is a stunning red wine.
The 2008 Rancho San Miguel Zinfandel, sourced from old vines on Starr Road near Windsor in the Russian River Valley is deep ruby in color. The nose shows a stunning array of fruit flavors like black cherry, raspberry, and jammy blackberry, along with notes of vanilla and potpourri. The palate is rich and full, with berry and cherry flavors accompanied by classic Zinfandel spice. Although the wine clocks in with higher alcohol, it's nicely integrated, has lovely smooth tannins, a long, and a silky smooth finish. The result is an incredibly intense, full-bodied wine that still remains in balance. This one is sure to please the palate.
Varietal: Zinfandel
Vineyard: Starr Road Vineyard
Appellation: Russian River Valley
Alcohol: 16.4%
Production: 450 Cases
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94 Points
Juice explodes right out of the glass with its dark purple in color and bursting aromas of black cherry jam, boysenberry, raspberry and wild cherry interlaced with hints of baking spice, espresso bean, and toasted nut. The palate is ripe and juicy with flavors of dark cherry, huckleberry and raspberry perfectly integrated with notes of spice, dark chocolate, and a kiss of toasty oak.
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.
95 Points
Lofty aromas of dark cherries, blackberries, and plum mingle with hints of baking spices and a touch of violet. The palate reveals luscious flavors of ripe berries, complemented by notes of black pepper and a subtle earthiness. With well-integrated tannins and a long lingering finish.
