Gold Medal - 2012 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition
Alexander Valley is one of the many picturesque sub-regions of Sonoma County, flanked on each side by mountains, with vineyards laid out as far as the eye can see on the valley floor. This region is further north, but also further inland than the Russian River Valley, which results in less marine influence, and therefore warmer weather. Still not as hot as Napa, the result is a climate that is perfect for Zinfandel in a riper style than the Russian River, but less ripe than Napa. One of the very first wines we ran on WineHeist was from Starry Night Winery, so it is always a pleasure to feature their wines, especially a wine like the 2009 Alexander Valley Zinfandel, which won a Gold Medal at the 2012 San Francisco Wine Competition.
The 2009 Starry Night Alexander Valley Zinfandel is deep ruby in color, with a classic Zinfandel nose of red berries and jam, along with notes of cigar box and baking spice. The palate shows cherry, raspberry, and plum, along with a distinctive iron note. This is an impeccably balanced Zinfandel, with wonderfully fresh flavors and a spicy, long finish. It’s medium weight makes it perfect for Summer and Fall.
Vintage: 2009
Varietal: Zinfandel
Appellation: Alexander Valley
Cooperage: American and French oak
Brix: 26.9º
pH: 3.55
TA: .627 g/100ml
Alcohol: 15.4%
Production: 510 cases
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.
90 Points
Aromas of cranberry, sour cherry, plum, and orange rind, complemented by hints of forest floor, pine needles, and rosemary. The wine opens with flavor of juicy red fruit supported by spicy undertones of red pepper and black tea. The freshness of its red fruit are enhanced a vibrant core of light acidity and full rich tannins all of which linger gracefully in the long 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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