Moon Mountain Monte Rosso Vineyard Zinfandel 2002

High in the Mayacamas Mountains on the western side of Mt. Veeder, more than 1,000 feet above the Sonoma Valley, Moon Mountain Vineyard offers some of the most difficult winegrowing conditions in California. The steep south-facing slopes, punctuated by volcanic rock outcroppings, consist of thin, well-drained soils derived from volcanic ash and lava. Situated well above the fog line, the vineyard receives generous sunshine late into the afternoon. This combination of frugal soils and warm, sunny microclimate stresses the vines to produce rich rewards: small crops of superbly concentrated Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc grapes.

Organic farming keeps the vines in balance and healthy, while enhancing the grapes' flavors. Harvested at full maturity, the grapes receive meticulous care in the winery, including slow aging in small oak barrels in mountainside caves and careful blending to achieve mouth-filling flavors of black cherry and currant fruit, complemented by subtle spice and toast complexity.