Medusa Pig Pen Zinfandel 2007
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For their national debut, winemakers for Medusa, Paul Hoffman and Rob Mondavi, sourced four different Zinfandel wines from prime growing regions: Pig Pen Vineyard and Henry's House Vineyard on the Deaver Ranch in Amador County; Lover's Lane Vineyard in Mendocino; and the Creekside Block of Bar 49 Vineyard in northeast Napa Valley. Each of these sites contributes distinctive, intensely concentrated character for four truly unique Zinfandel expressions.
Medusa produced its first vintage in 2003 to high praise and acclaim, and picked up momentum through association with Zinfandel Advocates and Producers (ZAP). At a recent ZAP event in San Francisco, Medusa was chosen as a standout, and fans of the label aren't shy about showing their support. Instead of the fake Medusa tattoos handed out at the events for fun, several enthusiasts have opted for the real thing!
Unapologetically bold, spice-driven and jammy, Zinfandel has secured its title as the darling of California vintners by adapting well to the state's diverse microclimates and landscapes. Born in Croatia, it later made its way to southern Italy where it was named Primitivo. Fortunately, the imperial nursery of Vienna catalogued specimens of the vine, and it later made its way to New England in 1829. Parading the true American spirit, Zinfandel found a new home in California during the Gold Rush of 1849. Somm Secret—California's ancient vines of Zinfandel are those that survived the neglect of Prohibition; today these vines produce the most concentrated, ethereal and complex examples.
Originally a source of oenological sustenance for gold-seeking miners of the mid-1800s, the Sierra Foothills was the first region in California to produce wines from European grape varieties. Located between Sacramento and the Nevada border, this area’s immigrant settlers chose to forgo growing the then-ubiquitous Mission grape and instead brought with them superior vines from the Old World to plant alongside mining camps.
Zinfandel has been the most important variety of this region since its inception, taking on a spicy character with brambly fruit and firm structure. Amador and El Dorado counties, benefiting from the presence of volcanic and granite soils, are home to the best examples. Bold, robust Rhône Blends and Barbera are also important regional specialties.