St. Francis Old Vines Zinfandel 2002

When we say "old vines", we mean vines at least fifty and often up to a hundred years old. We've found a series of small vineyards in Sonoma County that date back to the turn of the last century. Because of their great age, these plots yield less than four tons per acre of exceptionally concentrated fruit. Petite Sirah and Alicante Bouschet vines planted among the Zinfandel add texture and color to the field blend.

"We had harvest late, so that some of the grapes have become raisins, further intensifying the varietal flavors. Once crushed, the wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks for twelve to eighteen days, then aged in new American oak barrels from twelve to fifteen months. The wine is held another four to eight months after bottling. This is a plump, layered Zin with complex black cherry, raspberry, and black pepper flavors that unfold on the palate."