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. 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 2012 Alexander Valley Zinfandel.
Comprised of fruit from the esteemed Nervo Station Vineyard, with over 80% of the fruit for this wine from the Old Vine Block. This vineyard, located on a hillside in the western part of Alexander Valley, has two blocks of Zinfandel planted in 1896 and one block planted in 1934. As is typical of older Zinfandel Vineyards, there are numerous other varietals inter-planted in the vineyard including Petite Sirah, Carignane and Mataro among others. Farmed by the Nervo family for three generations, these head pruned vines produce a very limited crop that produces fruit that is concentrated and complex; leading to wines that have equally extracted flavors and aromas.
The 2012 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 is dense and rich with a LUSCIOUS finish and flavors of dark stone fruit, including ripe plum, dark cherry, cassis, hints of anise, exotic spice, and notes of white pepper. This is impeccably balanced Zinfandel. Its full-bodied style makes it perfect to enjoy all year-round.
Vintage: 2012
Varietal: Zinfandel
Appellation: Alexander Valley
Cooperage: Aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for over two years, including over 50% new French and new American oak barrels.
Brix: 26.6º
pH: 3.57
TA: .603g/100ml
Alcohol: 15.2%
Production: 680 cases
All Wines
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.
Big & Jammy!
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.
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